December 24th, 2020 edition

St. LouiS AmericAn

Ethics Committee says Rep. Price lied during investigation

By Dana Rieck

Of The St. Louis American

Rep. Wiley Price IV is facing censure in the Missouri House of Representatives based on recommendations from the 10-person Committee on Ethics after an investigation determined he coerced his former legislative assistant and committed perjury during an investigation into allegations he had sex with a House intern in January. The Ethics Committee last week released an eight-page report detailing the investigation. The report says Price coerced his former legislative assistant into changing her story, and that he lied about claiming to have had sex with a House intern.

Price represents the 84th District, which covers a

majority of the west side of St. Louis, including Forest Park, the Clayton and Hamilton Heights neighborhoods and a portion of the Wells-Goodfellows neighborhood. He won his second two-year term Nov. 3.

Price declined an interview for this story. Speaker of the House Rob Vescovo could not be reached for comment.

The investigation

The investigation began Jan. 27 when Price’s thenlegislative assistant reported to the House that Price told her he had sex with a House intern the night before. According to policy, outside counsel was contracted to conduct an

St. Louis County restaurant restrictions revisited

By Sandra Jordan Of The St. Louis American

informal working group of restaurant advisors on Tuesday, Dec. 22, on “a plan to reopen some form of indoor dining in restaurants and other food establishments.”

In a statement, the County said the plan is not final but “several ideas for new protocols proposed by group members will be included.” “We expect their work to be completed

Bush joins House Judiciary Committee

She is one of 11 members who is not a lawyer

By Dana Rieck

Congresswoman-elect Cori Bush may have just been elected to the House and appointed to the House Committee on the Judiciary, but don’t be fooled: she’s not taking her activist hat off any time soon. The committee appointment was announced Friday, Dec. 18, by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and has been a long-time goal of Bush’s. She said it’s something she’s aspired to since she first ran for office in 2016.

“I always said that the Judiciary Committee was where I wanted to be because I wanted to be able to address policing and so many other things that have affected St. Louis for such a long time,” she said in an interview with The American. “So when I ran this time, of course, that was front of mind.” Bush says people told her not to expect to be appointed to the committee, given that the majority of its members are attorneys. And so while she’ll be a part of the racial minority in the 43-member committee, she’ll also hold another minority status as one of the 11 members who is not a lawyer. The 10 other representatives on the committee

Misha Marshall sends up a prayer for her family, friends and neighbors

By Leyla Fern King For The St. Louis American

Second of two parts

This story was produced in partnership with the Pulitzer Center as part of the 63106 Project, a St. Louis-based non-profit racial equity storytelling project. Luck and faith play a huge role in Misha Marshall’s

this week, and if the number of weekly cases of COVID-19 remain stable, I intend to announce details of a limited reopening plan, a week from today,” St. Louis County Executive Dr. Sam Page said at his Wednesday morning media briefing. Page attributed a drop in new COVID-

Chace Fields, 6, asks Santa for a Harry Potter lego set and a bike for Christmas as he prepares to have his photo with Santa at the Galleria Mall on Saturday.

Photo by Lawrence Bryant

Santa visits Galleria

Wiley Price IV

Cori Bush

Misha Marshall

It’s splitsville for Tyler Perry and longtime girlfriend

Billionaire entertainment mogul Tyler Perry told PEOPLE that he is celebrating the holidays as newly single, following a break up from longtime girlfriend Gelila Bekele “I’m 51, single and wondering what the next chapter in my life will look like,” the entertainment mogul said last week on IG. Reportedly the split was amicable and the two remain close friends.

“Whatever it looks like I’m going to walk with God, be the best father and man I can be, hold my head up high, and try to look my best doing it!!” Perry added on IG. “In a world with so much sadness, please try and stay in the good! Merry Christmas and let’s look forward to 2021 bringing us peace!”

Vanessa Bryant says own mother is suing to get money

PEOPLE reports that Vanessa Bryant, widow of the late NBA Lakers great Kobe Bryant’s widow, is taking aim at her daughter’s finances. Court documents recently obtained by PEOPLE, show Sofia Laine, 68, is suing her daughter Vanessa, 38, for financial support, claiming she worked unpaid as a “longtime personal assistant and nanny” for the Bryant family, adding that before Kobe’s untimely death on Jan. 26, 2020 in a helicopter crash at age 41 that also claimed the life of 13-year-old daughter Gianna and seven others, he had promised to take care of his mother-in-law for the rest of her life. After supporting her mother for nearly 20

years, in a statement to PEOPLE, Vanessa Bryant claims her mother is “continuing to try and find ways to extort a financial windfall from our family.” She said her mother was never her personal assistant or a nanny to their children. “I have always been a stay-at-home mother, and my husband and I were our daughters’ full-time caregivers,” she said.

Uncle Luke proves COVID is 2 Live for any crew

went away… and then the fevers came…101, 102 at night.” Campbell says he still wakes up in the middle of the night soaking wet from night sweats, and he lost about 20 pounds in the ordeal.

Actors Keshia Knight Pulliam and Brad James are engaged

2 Live Crew’s Luther Campbell says COVID is real and it’s bad. Although he can’t say for certain exactly where he contracted the virus, against his own judgement, the legendary rapper said he gave into pressure to attend a friend’s party where social distancing and masks apparently were not invited. Campbell described it as the worst week of his life. “I went to my homeboy’s birthday party at a strip club,” Campbell said. “I went in there, I had a mask on, and everybody was in my face.”

In an Instagram video, posted by unclelukereal1, he said, “I started out in denial, thought it was allergies… I went from that to thinking I had a stomach virus, then my taste

One of TV’s favorite little Huxtables, Rudy from “The Cosby Show,” Keshia Knight Pulliam is tying the knot with Brad James, after the pair got engaged recently in Atlanta. PEOPLE reports Pulliam and James started dating year after the pair met on the set of the TV movie “Pride and Prejudice: Atlanta.” “Honestly, we just hit it off,” Pulliam said about first meeting James. James is best known roles in Tyler Perry’s sitcom “For Better or For Worse,” Netflix’s “Outer Banks” and on the black streaming service UMC series “A House Divided.” Knight Pulliam and James have both been married before.

Sources: Instagram, Miami Herald, PEOPLE, Smart News

Vanessa Bryant

Gelila Bekele

Report finds St. Louis police lack cohesion, officers have adopted ‘fire-fighting’ mentality

By Dana Rieck

Of The St. Louis American

A 42-page report on the status of the St. Louis metro and county police departments consistently reiterated its employees think the agencies lack cohesion and unity — which has led to, in part, a firefighting mentality “in which they respond reactively to all calls for service in the absence of a clearly-articulated organizational plan.”

Mayor Lyda Krewson, Public Safety Director Jimmie Edwards and Police Chief John Hayden announced the results of the six-month, outside review of the police departments July 1; it was released publicly Monday.

St. Louis Regional Business Council and the companies of Civic Progress, a coalition of local businesses that work to improve the St. Louis region, funded the study.

The study makes recommendations tailored to address the city’s crime rates, critical recruitment problem and complex public safety governance. Hayden declined to be interviewed about the report’s findings. Krewson also declined an interview. Her media spokesperson Jacob Long said Krewson had not finished reading the report. Edwards did not return a call for comment.

Teneo Risk conducted the study. The firm provides risk consulting and risk advisory services to a wide range of clients.

The study began by outlining the history of the police department and the city’s struggle

with violent crime. The study noted St. Louis has witnessed significant increases in murder and aggravated assaults with a gun in recent years, and the department’s solve rate is less than 25%, compared to the national average of 60%.

The report stated that as of Dec. 6, St. Louis had experienced 247 murders in 2020 — a rate 17% higher than the city’s most violent year, which was 1993.

The report also noted two significant advancements: the implementation of bodyworn cameras in November and the implementation of the SwiftProtect records management system, which should be completed in 2021.

The study’s authors conducted interviews with major St. Louis-area businesses, government, law enforcement and community leaders.

They wrote that officers expressed a perceived lack of cohesion at the executive level, creating ambiguity or uncertainty around who is leading the law enforcement effort during events such as protests and who is calling the shots when it comes to using military weapons, ammunition and equipment during those demonstrations.

This lack of cohesion and lack of an organized plan to reduce crime, the report stated, has led to officers finding themselves in a constant “firefighting” mode, meaning they are reactively responding to all calls for service instead of having a unified approach aimed at reducing crime rates. This leads to officer burnout and persistent rates of crime and disorder.

Furthermore, the study noted the coronavirus pandemic has further challenged the effectiveness of the department’s ability

to fight crime, citing that while overall crime in the city was down about 1% from January to September 2020, violent crimes against people, including homicide, rape, robbery and assault were up 90% in the downtown area, compared with the same time period last year.

The Ethical Society of Police released a statement in part asserting the study failed to adequately address systemic racism, a culture of violence in SLMPD and diversity. They also called out county officials for attempting to withhold demographic information relative to employment, discipline, and promotion and assert they tried to have the Teneo review team sign a non-disclosure agreement.

“One has to question the motives in that. How committed can St. Louis County be to address the issues when an

extraordinary effort was made not to provide the information,”

The Society wrote in a statement.

While there are pages of recommendations regarding things like resource allocation, crime control, technology use and communication, there were three main areas for improvement that the study outlined, listed below as they appear in the report:

1. The department should consider reorganization of personnel, bureaus and specialized units to maximize efficiencies leverag-

ing existing resources.

2. The department should create and implement a more data-driven, community-focused, long-term crime fighting strategy.

3. The department should empower the chief to select senior personnel, predicated upon the needs of the department, and to develop a forward-looking strategic plan for the organization.

The full report may be found online at bit.ly/34zRVtV.

The

The

“Restrictions stay put as first

begins shipping across country,” in the Dec. 17, edition should have stated that the ban on indoor dining has been extended for at least another two weeks. It is the relaxation of restrictions on signs, outdoor dining spaces and temporary structures that is extended through April.

A front page photo in the Dec. 17 edition showing Vicki Hodges receivinga coronavirus vaccine last week was incorrectly credited. The photographer was Bill Greenblatt/UPI.

Clarification: In the Dec. 17 edition Sharee Silerio, director of the documentary film “Black Girl, Bleu,” said she confided in a close friend, not her family members, who was insensitive to her when she expressed concerns about her own depression.

Now is the time to remember the true reason for the season

“The resurrection is a political event. The politics of the resurrection is found in its gift of freedom to the poor and the helpless. Being granted freedom while they are still poor, they can know that their poverty is a contrived phenomenon, traceable to the rich and the powerful in this world. This new knowledge … requires that the poor practice political activity against the social and economic structure that makes them poor.” — James H. Cone, God of the Oppressed, 1975 This year, Christmas for many of those who celebrate will not look like what it used to. It will be lonelier, perhaps, or filled with the anxiety of tenuous employment and uncertain futures. But in such times, we are given a moment to reflect on what the holiday means. In the spirit of the anniversary of Jesus’ birth, we have a special obligation to remember his mission to feed the hungry and heal the sick. He taught hiis followers to serve others — to

serve the poor, the destitute, the sex worker, the one suffering disease.

The United States, like the Roman Empire of Biblical times, is a land of plenty, but a land of plenty in which our riches are only accessible to some, while others are left to wander, asking for room at an inn.

A deepening poignancy and irony centers on the plight of the growing numbers of homeless and hungry, especially during this coronavirus pandemic. Mary and Joseph, too, were homeless — sort of. We can see the mother of God in the faces of the women and men evicted this year without any income to pay for their housing.

Many conservative Americans — and self-professed liberals, too — claim to be children of God, but offer disdain and ridicule for the poor and powerless in our society. We have seen this in Congress this week as our well-

paid rulers quibble over whether we are worth $600 stimulus checks.

Meanwhile, their constituents are dying — in numbers higher than the death toll of 9/11, every single day. This nation enacts religious devotion to the values of profit and of violence, all while claiming to do so in the name of Jesus.

American conservatives, and liberals alike, often see themselves as being in a battle against the secular, anti-religious views of the political left, while ignoring the Bible’s message of charity and love toward one’s fellow man.

Of all the seasons, Christmas compels all of us to reach out to the less-fortunate with tangible help, not just pious expressions of sympathy.

“What the Lord requires of you,” wrote the prophet Micah, is “ to act justly, to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”

As I See It - A Forum for Community Issues

The death penalty is racially biased, hypocritical and inhumane

By Wesley Bell

For The St. Louis American

Missouri made the Death Penalty Information Center’s 2020 annual report, and not in a good way. Missouri was one of five states — along with Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee and Texas — that performed executions in 2020. Missouri also was the first state to execute someone during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The total number of executions in the U.S. this year is 17, as of this writing; though, at the rate President Donald Trump is going, that number could increase and even balloon before the new year. Seventeen is down from 22 in 2019, and this was the lowest number of executions performed in the U.S. since 1991. Despite Missouri’s execution of Walter Barton on May 19, this year also saw the lowest number of executions performed at the state level since 1983. The Death Penalty Information Center does a great service in reminding us of the judicial killings done in our name. I can promise them and you that I will never add to these grim statistics. I campaigned for St. Louis County prosecuting attorney in 2018 with the explicit pledge that I will never seek the death penalty, and I renew that pledge today.

The Missouri Association of Prosecuting Attorneys cited deterrence as a key justification for the death penalty in a 2011 position paper. However, a 2001 U.S. Department of Justice report found that the average

murder rate per 100,00 people in 1999 among death penalty states was 5.5 and the average murder rate among non-death penalty states was 3.6. That sounds like anything but deterrence. A 1999 report in “Crime and Delinquency” on executions in Texas between 1984 and 1997 found that the murder rate was stable, with no evidence of a deterrent effect based on the number of executions. The death penalty also is racially biased. This year, according to the Death Penalty Information Center, almost half of the defendants executed were people of color and 76% of the executions were for the deaths of White victims. Black folks are more likely to be executed than White folks, and those (of any race) who kill White people are more likely to be executed than those (of any race) who kill Black people. Anyone familiar with these facts who still advocates for the death penalty must implicitly accept that Black lives matter less than White lives. That is not a position that is consistent with the U.S. Constitution that prosecutors swear to uphold.

Finally, these cases are especially hard on the families of victims. Death-sentenced prisoners spend on average more

The time is now for action on crime

The Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis has been on the front lines of the coronavirus pandemic, working to ensure the communities hardest hit by this deadly virus have some relief.

Guest Columnist

Michael McMillian

We have provided more than $3.75 million in food to over 85,000 families and distributed more than 300,000 masks, gloves, sanitizer and other protective gear to help stem the virus’ spread.

But there is another crisis in St. Louis that also presents a very clear and present danger to our community — crime, more specifically the alarming homicide rate.

As I write there have been 249 homicides in St. Louis this year, representing the highest number of deaths since the mid 1990s.

For some context, last year St. Louis had 194 homicides. The higher number for this year represents a 28% increase this year. And we still have a week left in the year.

To provide even more context, the highest total number of homicides we’ve ever recorded in a single year was 267 in 1993 … and we had 65,000 more people living in St. Louisthen.

Our homicide rate is one of the highest in the country and we are consistently placed

on the list of Most Dangerous Cities in America. In late November, a study ranked St. Louis as the second least safe city in America. Our mission at the Urban League is to empower African Americans and others throughout the region in securing economic self-reliance, social equality and civil rights.

n For some context, last year St. Louis had 194 homicides. The higher number for this year represents a 28% increase this year.

We envision a region where all people can live in neighborhoods that are vibrant and thriving. But that vision, and all of the work the Urban League and others undertake to improve our region, is undermined by a spiraling crime rate.

The 110,000 people we serve each year with employment, utility assistance, financial coaching, food, and other support services, remain at risk despite our best efforts. This is unacceptable and left unchecked it will lead to continued decline and disinvestment, causing even more poverty and inequity. This year, The Urban League doubled down on our efforts

Letters to the editor

Congress needs to pass COVID-19 relief bill now

As vaccinations roll out, coronavirus cases are also still on the rise throughout our city. People are still struggling with paying rent and finding food as the virus rages on.

than 10 years before execution or exoneration, and some prisoners spend more than 20 years on death row.

That is a terribly long time to wait for the closure delivered instantly with the sentence of life in prison without eligibility of parole. Also, given the gravity of the death sentence, these cases are more likely to be overturned on appeal than cases with a lesser sentence, forcing the state — and the grieving family — to start all over.

There is no stronger argument against the death penalty, however, than that our government sometimes kills innocent people in our name. According to the Death Penalty Information Center, five people were exonerated from death row in the U.S. in 2020, bringing the number of people exonerated from death row to 172 since 1973.

Those are 172 lives saved from unjust death at our hands. We will never know how many people killed by our government in our name were innocent of the crimes for which they were executed.

We have the power, as prosecutors, to end this ineffective, racially biased, hypocritical and inhumane practice. I do not believe in killing anyone nor asking anyone (including the state) to do so for me. I call upon all prosecutors in Missouri who currently consider the death penalty an option to stop. Premeditated murder, no matter who commits it, is wrong. Wesley Bell is St. Louis County prosecuting attorney.

In fact, the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities found that an estimated 12.4 million adult renters (1 in 6) reported that they were not caught up on rent.

We cannot afford to have millions of hard-working, honest, Americans put out on the streets in the middle of winter in the middle of this pandemic. Congress should act right now to pass a COVID relief bill that includes at least $25 billion in rent relief and a 15 percent boost in the maximum SNAP benefit to put safeguards in place to prevent a mass homeless population from happening.

Sarah Miller University City

Organize, register, vote

Let us not forget that it was Republicans who worked to suppress the vote in 2020, particularly affecting Black and other minority voters.

Let us also not forget that it was Republicans who worked to erase legally-cast votes of millions of Americans, particularly Black and other minority voters in many of the battleground jurisdictions in question.

It was Republicans who supported Trump’s many efforts to persuade state legislators, state judges and federal judges all the way to the Supreme Court to disregard millions of Americans’ votes -- without a shred of evidence but only wild accusations of fraud.

Shamefully, Missouri’s Republican Attorney General

to change lives and empower communities by launching the Division of Public Safety and Community Response, headed by James Clark. In just a few months, the Division has worked to de-escalate several disputes that had a trajectory towards violence, engaged more than 2,100 households with information on human service programs, implemented the Cure Violence model in Walnut Park, supported the JVL, Hyde Park, and Kingsway East neighborhoods with trauma counseling, substance abuse support, employment opportunities and more.

We recognize the challenges facing law enforcement and appreciate the very real concerns raised about policing in communities of color. Police reform and accountability is a non-negotiable. wWe cannot continue old strategies that are proven to be deadly in our community.

To that end, we welcome critical reviews of our local police departments by public and private entities — especially those with public input but it is clear that we cannot rely on law enforcement alone to manage crime and address criminal behavior. We all have a role to play. The Urban League is as committed today to creating a better St. Louis as we were 102 years ago. We all must recognize the urgency of now and commit full on to fighting crime in the same manner we are fighting COVID-19. We really are all in this together.

All letters are edited for length and style.

Schmitt joined this anti-democratic, anti-voter cause. So did 2nd District Congresswoman Ann Wagner. She and more than 120 other Republican House members signed on to this last-gasp Trump move to hang onto power that voters denied him — by more than 7 million legal votes.

Did Missouri’s two Republican Senators Blunt and Hawley call out Trump’s antidemocratic, indeed, anti-American effort to deny the vote to millions? Are you kidding, no. Republicans have tried to suppress the vote, particularly, the Black vote for decades. Now, they have gone beyond voter suppression to actually try to erase legally-cast votes. It is one more reason to organize, register more voters and rightfully earn the political power that Republicans would deny us.

Arthur Hoffman St. Louis

Guest Columnist

Local youth clubs unite to serve more children

For The St. Louis American

Boys & Girls Clubs, Mathews-Dickey Boys’ & Girls’ Club have served community for more than 113 years port.” Flint Fowler, president of BGCSTL, said, “There is a quote by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. that seems especially fitting as we embark on this new journey together: ‘We are not makers of history. We are made by history.’

The Mathews-Dickey Boys’ & Girls’ Club will be joining the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis, effective Jan. 1. The Boards of Directors and staffs of both MathewsDickey Boys’ & Girls’ Club and Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis care deeply about the future of the children in the St. Louis area, and have been exploring ways to collaborate to serve more youth for years. Collectively, both Clubs have served millions of children in the region for more than 113 years.

Over the past few years, Mathews-Dickey Boys’ & Girls’ Club board and staff have taken steps to build upon the foundation established by Martin Luther Mathews and Hubert “Dickey” Ballentine. These steps have included exploring partnerships with other non-profit organizations. All parties agreed that a partnership would strengthen the organizations, influence the lives of more children and families, and provide more youth access to low-cost, life changing programs and services.

Martin Mathews is the founder and president emeritus of theMathews-Dickey Boys’ & Girls’ Club. He said of the partnership, “Mathews-Dickey Boys’ & Girls’ Club has been an important part of the St. Louis community for 60 years, and our biggest contribution to this community are the children we have served.

“They are our biggest asset and I know that Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis shares our commitment to children and their development. Both Clubs are committed to a future that focuses on our children that I strongly sup-

“What will ultimately make us successful is the great history that is the foundation of our organizations and that combined will make us a force for change and good,” Fowler said.

The agreement preserves the Mathews-Dickey Boys’ & Girls’ Club name, location and nationally recognized youth sports programs. Joining forces and using the strengths of both Mathews-Dickey Boys’ & Girls’ Club and BGCSTL honors and affirms their legacies.

An integration committee will continue to work to finalize all aspects of the new enterprise. In the short term, Club operations will continue as they always have. In the long term, key programs and activities will be enhanced, new programs will be explored, and new data measurement practices will be deployed to ensure positive outcomes in priority areas that include academic success, good character and citizenship, sports and athletics and healthy lifestyles.

In late October, BGCSTL announced it had merged with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Bethalto, which has two locations in Illinois.

The combined organization will now be one of the region’s largest youth development agencies serving more than 10,800 kids and teens annually. In addition, the expanded organization will produce better outcomes for all members, extend opportunities for staff professional growth and development and boost fundraising.

The hypocrisy of Law and Politics

By Jamala Rogers For The St. Louis American

The response to news of Circuit Judge Thomas Clark II’s ruling was swift. Social media was a-blaze. The ruling to disqualify St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner from prosecuting the case of the gun-waving McCloskeys smacks of racism, white privilege and sexism. The re-election of Clark was targeted in 2018 by St. Louis activists. The campaign was not successful in unseating him but it took a sizable bite out of his votes that year: Clark received 55% of the vote compared to 65% in 2016.

Clark’s judgment in the case against Mark McCloskey harped on the “compelling and constitutionally sacred” right to a fair trial. Yet there are defendants and attorneys who believed their right to a fair trial was compromised with Clark on the bench. This judge is no beacon for real justice.

Technically, the federal judge’s ruling only applies to Mark McCloskey, one half of the now-famous duo. But any attorney worth their salt will use it as precedent for getting the same judgment for their client. That client would be Mark’s spouse, Patricia McCloskey.

Clark’s order doesn’t apply to Patricia McCloskey, but her attorney has also motioned to prevent a Black prosecutor from trying her case.

The judge in her case is Michael Steltzer. He’s a circuit judge who was targeted for un-election because he also has a track record similar to Clark’s. I hope you see the tangled web they weave.

The McCloskeys are wealthy, white attorneys. I know of no Black or poor people who have been able to get the prosecutor of their choice for their case.

I know plenty who filed legitimate motions to get a biased judge off their case or to get a change in venue or to get the bail reduced. Denied. Denied. Denied.

The McCloskeys this summer threatened non-violent protesters who were on their way to the home of St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson. The McCloskey’s self-made drama created political theater that catapulted them into the bright lights at the Republican National Convention. Talk about actions for political purposes!

Republican Sen. Josh Hawley jumped in with his unwavering support, urging Attorney General William Barr to sanction Gardner. Twelve U.S. representatives signed a letter to Barr urging him to use his powers to smack down a local prosecutor doing her job.

All 12 reps are white and male except for one white female. In trumpian-style Missouri Gov. Mike Parsons offered a pardon before the couple was even charged.

All of these actions were politically motivated — as have been most of the attacks on St. Louis’ first African American prosecutor. Their racist rhetoric has been used to whip up the Republic base. The results have been continued death threats against Gardner and sabotage of her office’s authority.

The double standards of decency and justice are continually exposed in our legal and political systems. Under the current Republican regimes, it has been a downright racist mockery.

Those of us who recognize the political sickness infecting our democracy will continue to fight for laws that protect the people and for the public servants who protect those laws.

Jamala Rogers

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis (right) will be joining the Mathews-Dickey Boys’ & Girls’ Club, effective Jan. 1, 2021.

Marshall

Continued from A1

The pandemic took a toll on her children, too. Her 18-yearold daughter, Maleah, a senior and track star at Carnahan High School of the Future, had her eye on continuing her studies and athletic career at Tennessee State University. That’s the historically Black university that sent legendary track stars Wilma Rudolph, Wyomia Tyus and Ralph Boston to the Olympics. But when the pandemic came along, Maleah saw her track season at Carnahan canceled. Then she decided, in an abundance of caution, to defer her track dream at TSU, and enroll in a dental program at St. Louis Community College.

Misha’s 21-year-old son, Jacobi, had a steady job at a mid-town hotel. But when the pandemic crushed tourism here, he was laid off.

With all of that misfortune, Misha and her children focus on counting their blessings. They have stayed happy, healthy and together, sharing a home in the Columbus Square neighborhood with Misha’s parents, John and Cathy Marshall, and Misha’s sister, Maya.

Columbus Square is in zip code 63106, which, in recent years, has not enjoyed many blessings. Researchers at Washington and St. Louis universities, in a widely cited study, have identified 63106 as the region’s most vulnerable when it comes to the social determinants of health.

Average life expectancy in 63106 was pegged at 67 years old in the study, compared to 85 in 63105, which is in suburban Clayton.

The Marshall family’s story is part of the 63106 Project, organized by Before Ferguson Beyond Ferguson, a nonprofit, racial equity storytelling collaborative that provides stories to St. Louis media about the region’s most vulnerable residents in the time of the pandemic.

Eight families in 63106 have participated in the project to date. As part of this effort, The St. Louis American is following the Marshall family through the pandemic, providing new chapters for The St. Louis American as circumstances dictate through 2021.

Misha Marshall credits the blessings her family enjoys to her parents’ deep and abiding Christian faith, which they passed on to their children and grandchildren.

John Marshall has served

as a deacon at Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church, 1444 South Compton Avenue, and Cathy Marshall has been involved in the church’s many ministries.

“I did all kinds of youth drama ministries and whatever ministry they had in church,”

Misha Marshall said.

“I’m just a person who loves God, knows that there is a God, I pray to my God, the God that I serve.” She is now a member of Friendly Temple Missionary Baptist Church, at 5515 Martin Luther King Drive.

Just as Misha’s parents taught her the importance of kindness and family, Misha does the same for her children. Maleah and Jacobi have been helping around the house from an early age. When they were tots, they began helping their mother in caring for their aunt Maya, who has cerebral palsy.

Each time they saw Misha head towards Maya’s room, they knew it was time to provide her with some TLC.

Over time, the two kids

learned to grab wipes and other supplies to help keep their aunt clean. As children, they viewed pushing Maya in her wheelchair as a fun game. Today it is a normal and welcome part of their day.

“They know that she has to be fed and dressed and groomed and all these things that you’re supposed to do, with a person that is of diminished capacity,” Misha says. “So it’s not something that is out of the norm for them.”

an especially difficult time. She was not in her normal optimistic mood and had accidentally left her phone at home.

n

“I’m just a person who loves God, knows that there is a God, I pray to my God, the God that I serve.”

— Misha Marshall

Apart from taking care of their Aunt Maya, Maleah and Jacobi help Misha in other ways around the house. If the kids notice that Misha looks more tired than usual, they make sure she does not have too much work to do around the house.

One day in particular, Jacobi noticed that Misha was having

Knowing that not having her phone would make Misha’s bad day even worse, Jacobi took an Uber to Misha’s workplace to surprise her with the phone. As he handed his mom the phone, he left her with words of affirmation: “Mom, everything’s going to be okay. You have to remember to have hope or be hopeful.”

Trying always to stay positive, Misha tries not to think too much about the crime in her neighborhood.

The 63106 zip code incorporates several St. Louis neighborhoods, including Columbus Square, Jeff-VanderLou, Old North and Carr

Square.

According to data from the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department up to October 2020, these neighborhoods had reported 24 homicides, nine rapes, 108 robberies, and 306 aggravated assaults for the year. The homicide rate is 200 homicides per 100,000 people for 2020. By comparison in 2018, the city of St. Louis overall reported 60.9 homicides per 100,000 people.

St. Louis police crime data also shows aggravated assaults in 63106 have increased 30 percent in the period since the outbreak of COVID-19.

Still, Misha says her family feels safe in their immediate neighborhood, though she stays alert. “I’m aware of my surroundings,” she says. “Am I gonna just be riding around with my windows down and my car unlocked at 2 o’clock in the morning? Absolutely not.”

Misha continues to stay optimistic. She said the

pandemic has “taught people to love more. It’s taught people to be more accountable, be present. Because the person that you’re talking to might be here today, but they might not be here the next day.”

The pandemic also brought Misha’s immediate family closer with their extended family.

In August, Misha celebrated Maya’s birthday with the help of her kids, parents, and her older sister and her family. Because of the struggle it takes to place Maya in her wheelchair, she does not often get the chance to spend time outside. The celebration and opportunity for Maya to enjoy fresh air meant a lot to everyone in the family. Through it all, Misha continues to pray for her family, for her neighbors, and for her patients.

In a recent prayer with the writer of this article, she began:

“Father God, in the name of Jesus, we just thank you for today. Thank you for this day that neither of us nor anyone on this Earth has seen before, God. We are grateful for Miss Leyla King, who has been given this opportunity to speak to me and see something in me that I may not see in myself. May you let her help others, in some form or capacity, through the work that she is doing …”

“God, bless the people of our city, of our state, of our nation, of this world that have dealt with the loss of a loved one, that have dealt with the pandemic, being a victim of it and surviving or not surviving from it. Lord, we just ask that you continue to keep all of us, keep us in your perfect peace, as you have done and as you continue to do ...

“God, I just ask that you continue to keep me strong, continue to keep me in a way that I am able to serve others, whether it be through my job or on a personal level.

“God, there are so many things that you do that go unspoken. Lord, You know my heart, and I just thank you everyday for everything. God, we ask all these things and more, in your son Jesus’ name.

“Amen.”

Leyla Fern King is one of several storytellers for Before Ferguson Beyond Ferguson, a non-profit racial equity storytelling project. She is a senior at John Burroughs School, and an alumna of Cultural Leadership, a St. Louis-based program that brings together Jewish and African American students to learn about and address systems of oppression through the study of African American and Jewish history.

Misha Marshall’s sister, Maya, at her 36th birthday celebration.

Misha Marshall’s sister Maya has cerebral palsy, but she was able to celebrate her birthday with the help of Misha, right, and her children, Maleah and Jacobi.

Restrictions

Continued from A1

positive cases to adherence to “Safer at Home” orders that haven been in place since Nov. 17 when the County has had more than 800 new cases of COVID-19 a day.

“Today we are just over 500 cases a day, and we attribute that drop in cases to good compliance in the community with health protocols,” Page said. “Both the CDC and the White House Task Force consider anything above about 145 new cases per day to be very high risk for a jurisdiction of our size, and we are at three times that number right now.”

Regarding vaccine development, Moderna’s twodose vaccine is the second vaccine to receive Emergency Use Authorization by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Inoculations began this week for residents and staff at nursing homes and elder care facilities.

Neighboring St. Charles County received its first doses of the Moderna vaccine from the state on Dec. 22 for direct patient-facing health care workers and individuals who

Price

Continued from A1

investigation, the report of which was given to the Committee on Ethics.

The legislative assistant testified to the Ethics Committee on Feb. 27, that Price came into his office, shut the door and told her he had sex with the intern the night before. The report does not name the assistant.

She also testified that after reporting this to the House, Price told her she had messed up by telling another representative and told her to recant what she had said to that person and then to support what he was saying — that he “didn’t do anything and it was all wrong,” according to the report.

The woman also testified that Price said to her: “Where I come from, people die for doing shit like this.”

On Feb. 17, the legislative assistant was reassigned to no longer work for Price. To prevent further harassment, the report stated, Price’s office was moved to a different building.

A second witness, the representative for whom the legislative assistant also worked and who she had talked to about what Price told her, also testified on Feb. 27 and gave information that was consistent with what Price’s legislative assistant said in her testimony, and noted that they

Bush

Continued from A1

who have not earned law degrees are: KarenBass, D-CA; Pramila Jayapal, D-WA; Val Butler Demings, D-FL; Lucy McBeth, C-GA; Debbie Mucarsel-Powell, D-FL; Veronica Escobar, D-Texas; Doug Collins, R-GA; Tom McClintock, R-CA; Debbi Lesko, R-CA; and Tom Tiffany, R-WI.

Two other freshman representatives were appointed to the House Committee on the Judiciary alongside Bush: Congressman-elect Mondaire Jones, D-NY, and Congresswoman-elect Deborah Ross, D-N.C. In order to be appointed to any committee, U.S. representatives write a letter to Pelosi indicating what committee they would like to be appointed to and why. The appointments are then voted on by the House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee.

Bush said she believes her House colleagues know her voice should be represented in this committee, regardless of her more liberal views, because she’s had such a different lived experience.

“Out of all the Congress members, I’m the one that is

live or work in long-term care facilities, as recommended by state and federal health authorities.

St. Charles County Department of Public Health Director Demetrius CianciChapman said in a news release, “We have been preparing for this distribution since the early days of the pandemic and are ready to deliver the vaccine to protect members of our community.”

For individuals who are willing to get a COVID19 vaccine, this may be the beginning of efforts to end

are both mandated reporters, the report said.

Both witnesses also testified that this was not the first time Price had disclosed to them information about his sexual partners, according to the Committee’s report. The intern in question declined to cooperate with the committee’s investigation. The intern was assigned to an uninvolved representative, according to the report.

The report states that the Ethics Commission subpoenaed phone records that showed seven phone calls and 26 messages exchanged between Price and the intern between 12:40 a.m. Jan. 23 and the evening of Jan. 26. Their last call was 42 minutes long.

Approximately seven months later, on Sept. 15, Price testified in front of the Ethics Committee, the report said.

Price said during his sworn testimony that he did not have sex with the intern and denied that he had said that to his legislative assistant.

During his testimony he also denied that he had any phone contact with the intern, until he was shown the phone records the Committee had obtained. At that point, the report stated, he said he contacted the intern to confirm his legislative assistant made it home safely after the three of them had attended a party at a restaurant.

Price also testified that he had given his legislative

from the Ferguson movement and have continued to do that work, the work to save lives, a work to help build,” she said.

The House Committee on the Judiciary is charged with protecting Constitutional freedoms and civil liberties, oversight of the U.S. Departments of Justice and Homeland Security, legal and regulatory reform, innovation, competition and anti-trust laws, terrorism and crime and immigration reform.

According to the committee’s website, they send the largest number of substantive bills to the House floor each year, which is something that makes Bush feel optimistic. She said she and her team have three primary areas of focus: the criminal legal system and policing; voting rights; and gun violence, from the standpoint of this being a problem born out of systemic oppression.

“In my eyes, it’s a huge win for our district where the Ferguson uprising happened,” she said. “To be in this position, to be able to work on policing, to work on the criminal legal system, to work on these issues that are still happening in a place where, for six years running strong, we’re still number one for police murder, from 2013 to 2019, to be able to work on that is just a huge deal, it’s a huge win.”

the coronavirus pandemic. Health care experts stress that everyone should continue to wear masks, continue to wash their hands frequently and thoroughly, and continue to keep a distance from others.

Dr. Alex Garza, incident commander of the St. Louis Metropolitan Pandemic Task Force, said Wednesday that COVID-positive daily hospitalizations remain very high.

“Our positivity rate though, is still very high — it’s hovering around 20% — that is our Task Force hospital

assistant a notice that she would be fired within 30 days before she alleged he had sex with the intern, which contradicted an earlier statement he gave indicating he had no prior concerns with the woman.

There was no documentation, according to the Ethics Committee report, that he had given the legislative assistant such a notice.

The Committee also stated in the report that Price’s lawyer violated House rules during Price’s testimony by attempting to record the private hearing, which was prohibited. He was asked to delete the recording and did so.

Committee findings

In the report, Ethics Committee members assert

diagnostic rate for testing,” Garza said. “We would want that to be down around that 5% mark before we’d feel comfortable with saying that we’ve adequately suppressed the virus.”

And just in time for Christmas are spikes in COVID-19 cases that may have come from those who ignored warnings against Thanksgiving holiday travel, parties and gettogethers with loved ones and friends who live outside of their own households.

And if past human behavior is any indicator, there may

that Price lied and committed perjury when it came to his statements about having sex with and communicating with the intern, threatened his legislative assistant for reporting the incident, obstructed the investigation by trying to coerce his legislative assistant to change her story and compromised the House’s ability “to provide a respectful, professional work environment.”

The committee recommended the House take several actions, including that he be censured, which is a formal statement by the House expressing disapproval, and that he pay $22,494 to cover the cost of the investigation.

And until the House does censure him, the committee recommends he conduct himself in a respectful manner,

Occupational health nurse Veronica Murray administers the coronavirus to Lori Weatherspoon, vice president and chief nursing officer at Christian Hospital as the first vaccines come into the St. Louis area for frontline health care workers.

be more of the same from in-person celebrations through New Year’s Day. Garza said, “we are still very much in crisis mode.”

“COVID-19 is a brutal, deadly and highly transmissible disease, and if we give it the opportunity, it will continue to spread through our communities and claim more lives,” Garza said. “That is why I must ask you again, to please, stay safe as you celebrate this Christmas holiday; celebrate at home; celebrate with people you live with; and do everything you can to keep

be barred from having an intern, removed from any committee assignments and denied the ability to hold a leadership position.

Missouri Democratic Party Chair Michael Butler released a statement last week, in response to the report.

“We want to thank the House Ethics Committee for investigating these allegations. The full House should determine appropriate actions after reconvening and examining the evidence,” he said.

Planned Parenthood Advocates and NARAL ProChoice Missouri also issued a statement, calling for Price to resign.

“The report of abuse of power by Representative Wiley Price this week leaves only one conclusion to be drawn

yourself and the people you love, from winding up in the hospital with this virus.” In Washington, the $900 billion bipartisan federal stimulus bill that would have put $600 in the hands of individuals is now in jeopardy, as the lame duck president said on Tuesday that he does not like the bill and wants $2,000 stimulus checks for individuals, otherwise, he said the next administration can come up with its own stimulus plan.

CNN reports Speaker Nancy Pelosi will move for a unanimous consent vote for $2,000 direct payments on Thursday, Dec. 24.

Finally, numbers from the Johns Hopkins University of Medicine Coronavirus Resource Center remind us of the human toll of COVID-19: 78,145,043 — that is the global confirmed number of COVID19 cases as of mid-morning on Dec. 23, with 1,719,973 people dead from this disease. In the U.S , there are more than 18.23 million confirmed cases of COVID-19 and nearly 323,000 deaths — deaths that could populate the entire City of St. Louis, plus 7%, according to 2019 U.S. Census Bureau estimates. Those deaths equate roughly to the size of Corpus Christi, Texas.

— he is unfit to serve and must immediately resign,” said Mallory Schwarz, Executive Director, NARAL Pro-Choice Missouri. Yamelsie Rodríguez, president and CEO, Advocates of Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region and Southwest Missouri, echoed that sentiment.

“When you’re serving in public office, you have a special responsibility to uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct,” Rodriguez said. “If you fall short of those standards and violate the trust of your constituents by abusing your power, you should take full responsibility for your actions and step aside.” Rep. Wiley Price IV is the son of The St. Louis American’s staff photographer Wiley Price III.

Photo/Lawrence Bryant

St. Rita’s Academy and the Oblate Sisters of Providence

By Sabrina Gorse, Missouri Historical Society

The story of St. Rita’s Academy—a convent and parochial school for Black girls—begins decades before the academy’s founding in 1912.

In the late 19th century, the pastor of St. Elizabeth Parish, Rev. Ignatius Panken, faced a conundrum. The parish—founded in 1873 at the intersection of 14th and Gay streets to serve Black Catholics—needed trained teachers to take over its school for African American children.

To solve this dilemma, Panken sent an invitation to an experienced sisterhood in Baltimore, Maryland, in 1880. The Oblate Sisters of Providence, founded in 1828, was considered the first permanent and successful Roman Catholic sisterhood for women of African descent.

After some consideration, the sisters accepted Panken’s invitation, sending Mother Louise Noel and three other sisters to St. Louis to take over the school and help establish the sisterhood’s St. Louis chapter. The sisters helped transform the school from a primary school in the church’s basement into a day and boarding school at its own building at 1411 Morgan Street. They also established the St. Francis Orphan Asylum in 1888, which was located on Page Avenue before it moved to Normandy, Missouri.

Conflict soon arose between the sisters and the parish’s new pastor, Rev. John McGuire, perhaps in part due to the new changes the parish was undergoing from within and without. When the parish moved to 2721 Pine Boulevard in 1912, the school was temporarily closed, and the sisters were released from their duties to the parish. No longer responsible for the parish’s school, the sisters were now free to pursue their own interests. They decided to open their own school, St. Rita’s Academy, also known as St. Rita’s Convent for Colored Nuns and Students. The academy first opened as a boarding school for young African American girls in rented rooms at 3009 Pine Street in September 1912. The next year, the sisters bought a house at 3128 Laclede Avenue. The academy soon ran out of space, and in 1921 the sisters purchased a property at their third and final location, 4650 South Broadway. The transition was rough and risky. The academy’s new home was in a white residential

neighborhood, where the sisters were met with racist hostility. When the other South Broadway property owners learned about the move, they formed a committee to protest the academy’s new location and called upon Building Commissioner McKelvey and Archbishop John J. Glennon to halt the move, fearing that the presence of African Americans in their neighborhood would damage the neighborhood’s reputation and depreciate the value of their properties.

In an August 1921 interview in the St. Louis Globe-Democrat, one of the residents claimed that the committee would try to remove the academy legally and accused the sisters of obtaining their permit to renovate their new residence under false pretenses. During the renovation, a night watchman patrolling the school scared off a trespasser, and the Oblate Sisters asked for police protection. In the end, the sisters won, and they remained on South Broadway for over 30 years.

From its inception in 1912, St. Rita’s Academy aimed to prepare African American girls for the challenges of the time. Starting off as a boarding school, the sisters expanded from elementary to junior high and high school educational modules by the 1930s. They taught a variety of courses, including English, Latin, Greek, modern languages, algebra, geometry, history, civics, shorthand, typewriting, grammar, biology, chemistry, religion, music, painting, drawing, and needlework. Supported by St. Rita’s League and St. Rita’s Aid Society, the academy remained active into the 1940s.

Unfortunately, the academy began losing pupils in the late 1940s and closed its doors around 1950. The sisters gained permission to open a home for working girls and women and a retreat center, but the establishment was largely unsuccessful and closed in 1954. In the fall of 1958, the sisters sold the house to the Missionary Fathers of Our Lady of La Salette. The house burned down in 1969.

The Missouri Historical Society’s “Seeing 1940s St. Louis” Sievers Studio Collection Project is made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services MA-30-180009-18. This article originally appeared on the Missouri Historical Society’s blog, historyhappenshere.org.

Ethiopian Artist Elias Sime Reigns Large at Art Museum

The Saint Louis Art Museum opened its Currents 118: Elias Sime in July shortly after the reopening of the Museum, and the exhibition will be on view through the end of January. With social distancing, masks, and enhanced safety protocols, the Museum is open to the public, and the art of Sime is well worth a visit.

Standing in front of the large-scale artworks by Sime, it is not immediately clear what materials the artist uses. Upon closer examination, one sees that Sime uses discarded technological materials such as electrical wires, circuit boards, motherboards, and computer keys. Some may label the artists’ materials as recycled, but Sime is more interested in how materials are reclaimed, reused, and given a new aesthetic life. He breaks, weaves, collages, and burns these assorted materials to create abstract images reminiscent of nature, urban cityscapes, and figures.

logical progress as well as its impact on humanity and nature.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

Virtual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Celebration

Inspired by Movement

Local Dancer, Singer, and Actor respond to Pulitzer-Winning photographer Moneta Sleet, Jr. photographs of the Civil Rights Movement.

Sime, born in 1968, grew up in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. He sources most of the materials for his art at the Merkato, the biggest open-air market in Africa. Sime is deeply involved in developing the Ethiopian art community and has established a research-practice studying rural communities’ ancient rituals. Sime co-founded Addis Ababa’s Zoma Museum with his long-time collaborator, the curator and anthropologist Meskerem Assegued. The museum, which opened in 2019, comprises a school, farm, garden, library, and space for exhibitions and other projects. The center has a holistic vision of merging art, community engagement, and sustainability.

Will be available on-demand at slam.org starting January 18

For Sime, the materials and his artworks tell the story of globalization and our interconnected world. He sees the movement of goods, especially technological refuse, as a system that connects people across the globe. The artworks on view at the Art Museum are part of an ongoing series that Sime titled Tightrope. The works of art in the series embody the advances made possible by techno-

Currents 118: Elias Sime is the 118th installment of the Saint Louis Art Museum’s popular “Currents” contemporary art series. Founded in 1978, the series showcases artwork created by local, national, and international emerging and mid-career artists. This free exhibition will be on view in Galleries 249 and 250 through January 31. Currents 118: Elias Sime is curated by Hannah Klemm, associate curator of modern and contemporary art, and Molly Moog, research assistant for modern and contemporary art.

Photo credit Brett Moen

Nun teaching her students chemistry at St. Rita’s Academy, 1945.

Photo by Sievers Studio. Missouri Historical Society Collections.

Midwest BankCentre pledges more than $100 million in loans

Industry award-winning Midwest exec Fennoy touts potential impact for economic development

By Karen Robinson-Jacobs For The

St. Louis American

St. Louis-based Midwest BankCentre, a major community bank with more than $2 billion in assets, plans to make $200 million in community and economic development loans over the next five years, with up to 80% of the money being spent in the St. Louis metro area, a bank executive told The American.

Announcement of the lending program, which kicks off in 2021, comes as activists push corporate leaders to address the pernicious impacts of racial and social inequality, and as the nearly year-long global pandemic pushes many small businesses into bankruptcy.

While the initiative is not a direct result of the devastation of 2020, the year’s events did put the need for action into sharper relief, creating a greater sense of urgency.

“We were talking about it before 2020,” said Alex Fennoy, the bank’s executive vice president for

community and economic development. “My feeling is that it would not have been as aggressive without being in the midst of everything that 2020 has been.

“I don’t think it would have, to be honest. [The year] had, in

my opinion, a very positive effect in pushing me and others to think ‘how much more can we help?’” The announcement also comes weeks after the American Bankers Association Foundation awarded its sixth annual George Bailey

Nyshaun Harvey, 23, is the proud owner of Latte Lounge and Kingdom Kids Learning Center, both in Florissant.

Distinguished Service Award to Fennoy, 52, and co-winner Detra Miller, of M&T Bank, for their efforts to expand banking services to underserved communities. The

23-year-old entrepreneur opens second business

Latte Lounge comes to Florissant

By Danielle Brown Of The St. Louis American

Nyshaun Harvey owns Kingdom Kids Learning Center and now Latte Lounge.

Harvey’s father’s untimely death in 2012 brought indescribable pain and sadness into her life, triggering unbearable migraines. She was 14 years old at the time and couldn’t fully process what happened.

After asking her mom for a cup of coffee, Harvey soon found a solution to her problem — the caffeine helped alleviate her symptoms, causing the migraines to subside.

From that day forward her love for coffee grew, even though it was tragedy that introduced her to a passion for caffeine. Last month, Harvey now 23, opened Latté Lounge, a stylish coffee shop two doors down from her day care facility, Kingdom Kids Learning Center.

n “We hope to be set apart by setting the tone when people walk in the door, that they can just feel that there’s something different when they walk in here.”

— Nyshaun Harvey

“It’s crazy how something that was so horrible happened to me birthed something so beautiful now,” Harvey said. “We’re six years later, but for two years I suffered from migraines and couldn’t figure out what was going on. Coffee [didn’t make migraines] go away, but instead made [the headaches] subside. That experience motivated me to create a business.”

In an indirect way, coffee was a motivator.

About two and a half years ago, Harvey wrote in her journal that she wanted to own a coffee shop.

Harvey didn’t immediately have a plan for how she would make that happen. She had just moved her day care facility from Jennings to Florissant, and sure enough, a year later she learned the space was up for sale. After reviewing its potential, Harvey concluded that the space was perfect for a coffee shop — and it was close enough that she could easily walk from her first business to her second one.

Planning, preparation and execution took 14 months. Her original plan was to have the renovation completed in six months, but the coronavirus pandemic made it take much longer. For example, just finding an affordable contractor was an issue and work had to conform to a range of city codes.

“Opening Latté Lounge during the pandemic was tough because I was not only in the process of opening a new business, I was also in the middle of running another one. Switching things around meant I had to take precautionary measures,” Harvey said.

“I definitely believe time was a huge factor and COVID had a role in

See FENNOY, A10 See

Covenant House Missouri has named Tyrone Ford as chief program officer. The new position was created to align with the organization’s already expanding services as part of an effort to grow housing opportunities for at-risk youth in the St. Louis area. In 2020, Covenant House Missouri has expanded its residential capacity from 30 to 40 beds a night. The organization recently announced the completion of their Wellness Center, a community resource for young people ages 16-24 to receive mental and physical health services. In his new role, Ford will work with all members of Covenant House Missouri’s leadership team as they work to support more youth experiencing homelessness.

Connections to Success names Ruth Lee chief executive officer

Connections to Success has appointed Ruth Lee as CEO, effective Jan. 4. Lee is a strategic leader with 25+ years of experience in Missouri nonprofit work, specializing in development, marketing and communications, human resources and corporate partnerships. Connections to Success was founded in 1998 as Dress for Success Midwest, with a mission of breaking the cycle of poverty by supporting participants as they work toward career goals. The organization has expanded its programs over the past 23 years to include personal and professional development, life coaching, mentoring, education and skills training, and networking in addition to the original confidence-building experience of having the right clothes for job interviews.

Sarah Thompson joins St. Louis Press Club board

Sarah Thompson Covenant House Missouri taps Tyrone Ford as chief program officer

Sarah Thompson, a public relations, marketing and media professional, has been named to the board of the St. Louis Press Club. Her company, Sarah Thompson LLC, focuses on nonprofit organizations and small businesses in the areas of arts, culture and lifestyle. Thompson is a three-time, Emmy Award-winning producer — and five-time nominee — receiving two Emmy Awards for arts & entertainment stories and one for a commercial campaign. She is the host and producer of STL TV’s “City Corner,” which also airs on ABC30. For the past 12 years, she has served as the weekly on-air events contributor on KMOV’s “News 4 Great Day,” and weekly host of STL TV’s “STL Live.”

Working with Habitat for Humanity, Alex Fennoy of Midwest BankCentre helps build a home in University City in 2018. The Bank had about 15 volunteers joining the project, including Steven Manning (in the background), an assistant branch center leader.

Tyrone Ford

Ruth Lee

Photo/ Brian Cassidy Location Photography

Photo by Danielle Brown

Lounge

Continued from A9

the time it took to open” she said. “I’m very grateful to finally be open and to allow people to order inside for takeout. It was tough, but it was worth it.”

With Starbucks and Dunkin Donuts also in the area, Harvey says she isn’t in competition with them. She believes her shop’s environment has a different feel from the chain establishments.

Its white walls brighten the space, and well-placed greenery lends a dramatic contrast.

Oversized photographs of her grandparents are on prominent display.

“We hope to be set apart by setting the tone when people walk in the door, that they can just feel that there’s something different when they walk in here,” Harvey said.

“I did a lot of copper tones and modern decor that people are looking for when they go into a coffee shop.

“They’re looking to take a

picture somewhere, because ‘what else are we going to do, right?’ Put it on Instagram.”

“The biggest thing that we want people to know about Kingdom Kids is we’re trying to train up the next genera-

tion to know who they are and whose they are,” Harvey said. “We live in a really cruel world.

“We want them to go out in that world and stand bold, stand fierce in front of those

around them and tell them this is who I am. We believe that the kids we’re encountering everyday are going to change nations and generations.”

Faith isn’t the only element that sets Harvey’s learning

Last month, Nyshaun Harvey opened Latté Lounge, a stylish coffee shop two doors down from her day care facility, Kingdom Kids Learning Center.

center apart from others. It also offers children organic food, and allows them to engage in interactive learning activities.

“We serve organic food because I strongly believe what goes into their bodies has a

major impact on their everyday life,” Harvey said. “We also provide them with experience by bringing in different groups sometimes such as the Bubble Bus [a colorful minivan offers bubble blowing parties around town]. On another day, there might be a petting zoo. We do those activities to keep youngsters engaged and active.”

The journey to Harvey having not one, but two businesses, wasn’t easy, but she appreciates it and believes it was all worth the effort in the end.

“I worked hard to get where I am today,” Harvey said. “I’m truly thankful for both locations and all that have come through them.”

Latté Lounge is at 2190 N. Waterford Drive, Florissant.

Hours: Monday through Friday, 7 a.m.to 6 p.m. and Saturday, 9 a.m.to 5 p.m. For more information visit its Facebook and Instagram pages @Latté Lounge.

Kingdom Kids Learning Center is at 2184 N Waterford Drive, Florissant Visit www.kingdomklc.com for more information.

Saga continues as Health Department once again targets Reign Restaurant

By Dana Rieck Of The St. Louis American

Since it opened this summer, Dana

Kelly’s

downtown restaurant has faced numerous governmental roadblocks and obstacles that officials say are related to coronavirus restriction violations.

In its latest move, the Health Department of St.Louis issued an order Dec. 15 that Kelly close her restaurant, Reign, at

1122 Washington Ave., for a year after allegedly violating two COVID-19 orders during the weekend of Dec. 12. Fredrick Echols, acting director of health, wrote that the restaurant was in violation of not observing social distancing and not requiring all people inside the building to wear masks. The closure was effective for a year unless all of the following conditions are met sooner: the COVID-19 posi-

tivity rate is at or below 5% in the city for 30 consecutive days; the COVID-19 vaccine becomes available for the general population and the city reaches herd immunity; and the pandemic has been declared over by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The downtown restaurant opened for business Aug. 1 and employs 70 people.

Kelly’s lawyer, Jonathan Lerman, said he believes Kelly

is being targeted because it serves a predominately Black clientele in a predominantly white neighborhood. He believes this because, he said, the anonymous tips the Health Department is citing regarding Reign aren’t so anonymous.

Lerman also pointed to what happened to the WheelHouse, at 1000 Spruce St., was ordered to close only 30 days after its third COVID-19 related violation.

“So how does 30 days turn into a full year? What’s the difference between Wheelhouse and Reign, at the end of the day?” Lerman asked.

In addition, Lerman sued the city in mid August after Reign received a letter ordering Kelly to halt operations for two weeks — two weeks after its grand opening. The city and Kelly reached an agreement that the lawsuit would be dismissed if Reign was up and running without issue or interference for 30 days.

Fennoy

Continued from A9

association’s highest individual honor is given to a non-CEO banker who has shown “outstanding initiative, effectiveness and inspiration to others.”

“At a time when our industry is looking for meaningful ways to expand access to banking and promote financial inclusion, Detra and Alex provide incredible examples for other bankers to follow,” Rob Nichols, ABA president and CEO said in a statement.

The award is named for the irrepressible character played by Jimmy Stewart in the Christmas movie “It’s a Wonderful Life,” who was motivated largely by his love for his hometown.

Fennoy grew up an only

Lerman said he filed to dismiss the lawsuit in early October.

“Two days later, we get another two-week shutdown notice from the Health Department for allegations that dated all the way back to Sept. 4 or 5,” he said. “Which means, apparently, according to them, there have been violations going on for a month, although we still haven’t seen any evidence to support that and we have asked multiple times.”

Both Kelly and Lerman believe the continued orders to close are also connected to Kelly’s intention to run for mayor. Kelly confirmed Tuesday that she plans to file to be on the ballot within a week.

“I think we are familiar with the way that politics have run locally in St. Louis for generations, I won’t speculate but we see the past is defining the present,” Kelly said.

As for the letter Dec. 15,

child in East St. Louis. He sees the lending initiative as an extension of work he began when he joined the bank in 2010, focusing on historically underserved communities. He joined Midwest following a career in commercial lending at major institutions including PNC, Regions Bank and Bank of America.

“Our goal at Midwest ... is always, always a big tent philosophy,” he said. “How can we bring in more people and businesses that have been out of mainstream banking? How can we bring them in and do our part to help revitalize and bring historically disinvested neighborhoods, areas [and] communities up to the level that they ... want to be?

“We want to be a part of those that spur economic development.”

When Fennoy joined the

Lerman noted Kelly had rented the space out to recording artist Toosii2x with the understanding he was going to use the patio to film a music video. When Kelly arrived to check in on the space, she found Toosii2x and his group instead hosting a concert and violating social distancing and mask wearing mandates. She said she ordered him out immediately and called in her staff to do a deep clean.

“What’s not being said is that not one case of COVID has been traced back to my restaurant,” she said. Echols did not return a call for comment. Lerman confirmed Echols denied his request Monday afternoon to lift the closure order so Reign could resume business and said there would be a hearing to contest that decision next week.

“We have opened up after each hearing, because we haven’t done anything wrong,” Kelly said.

bank he said his initial focus was on reaching area residents who used expensive check cashing and lending services — which can lead to more than $1,000 annually in fees and other costs — rather than establishing a relationship with a commercial bank.

He also helped foster partnerships that resulted in profitable bank branches being established in the largely Black community of Pagedale and at Friendly Temple Church in the Wells-Goodfellow neighborhood of north St. Louis. As part of the SBA’s Paycheck Protection Program, launched in response to the coronavirus pandemic, the bank made more than $206 million in loans. Nearly 90% of the 1,400 loans were issued in amounts under $150,000, he said.

“We really got to the heart of what the program was intended to do,” Fennoy said. The initiative — dubbed community and economic development 2.0 — will channel loans to small businesses, non-profits, faith-based groups and community development projects.

Though most of the loans will be issued with market-level interest rates. Fennoy said businesses and organizations will benefit through increased access to capital, which will add to the tax base and help spur job creation.

The program will focus on lending “because that’s the key for people having success,” in low- to moderate-income areas or to businesses owned by minority individuals, Fennoy said.

The bank board “is saying ‘Alex, we trust and believe in what you’re doing’ and ... it’s just inspiring to be able to have that.”

Photo by Danielle Brown

$81 million revitalization project to target O’Fallon Park Neighborhood

St. Louis American Staff

An $81 million revitalization project was recently announced as the goal of a partnership between AMJ Investment Group, Kwame Building Group, St. Louis and Alderman John Collins-Muhammad.

The project has been deemed The City District and aims to revitalize 10 blocks in the historic O’Fallon Park Neighborhood in north St. Louis, according to a news release. The project aims to complete new construction as well as redevelopment of 610,000 square feet, creating 128 parcels of retail space, single and multi-family homes and community green space.

The project is scheduled to be completed in Spring 2025.

“The City District is about taking direct responsibility for the economic development of the next generation of our city. This project aims to not simply ‘redevelop’ the O’Fallon neighborhood, but also provide overdue opportunities and a well-deserved chance for the area to economically thrive,” said Miki Jones in the news release.

Jones is president of AMJ Investment Group and The City District’s developer.

The release outlined two separate phases in the project. Phase one will cost approximately $34 million and will demolish 66 parcels of property — 50% of which are currently vacant — and the land will be reallocated for new construction of retail, homes and community green spaces.

Demolition is set to begin in March.

In addition, the construction team will also construct a city plaza during phase one, which aims to create a vibrant shopping and recreational area for a “thriving local labor force.”

During phase two of the project, $1 million will be invested in rehabilitating 26 existing homes, some of which will be converted into multi-use rental properties while retaining their architectural history.

Phase two will also include a $24 million project to construct new single and multi-family homes.

“This development project represents the future of our community,” Collins-Muhammad said in the release. “These community-led developments not only bring much needed quality housing and commercial construction to our treasured part of North City, but also demonstrate

Collins-Muhammad represents the area in which the development is planned for.

our commitment to revitalization through grassroots organizing and community planning.”

The O’Fallon Park Neighborhood

The O’Fallon Park neighborhood was created from divided farmland nearly 145 years ago, according to The City District’s release.

This is one of several redevelopment projects planned for this area of North St. Louis.

The others include the new $2 billion National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency located three miles away and a planned $80 million medical school for Ponce Health Sciences University.

9,276

More than 1,000 workers could be employed daily in 2022 during peak construction of the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency’s new $1.75 billion facility project, which broke ground on November 26, 2019. The city’s inclusion goals require that a minimum of 25 percent of the contract’s labor hours go to minorities, 7 percent go to women, 23 percent to city residents and 20 percent to apprentices.

“I’m proud of this ambitious plan to bring redevelopment to the 21st Ward,” said CollinsMuhammad in the press release. “Working with the talented and zealous representatives of the AMJ Investment Group coupled with construction management expertise of Kwame Building Group, we are relaying a foundation to foster an economic resurgence in north city.”

O’Fallon Park

Krewson tells officials Workhouse won’t close before Dec. 31 deadline

By Dana Rieck Of The

St. Louis American

St. Louis Mayor Lyda

Krewson confirmed to government officials last week the Workhouse will not close by the end of this month.

St. Louis’ Medium Security Institution, more commonly known as “the Workhouse,” has operated on Hall Street near the Mississippi riverfront since 1966.

The Board of Aldermen passed Board Bill 92 unanimously on July 17. The bill was based on a plan by the the group known as the Close the Workhouse Campaign. The bill also establishes two funds of $7.6 million to address neighborhood safety and re-entry programs for inmates.

Krewson told several government officials on Dec. 16 during the monthly Board of Estimate and Apportionment meeting that the jail will not close on Dec. 31. About 100 inmates are being held at the Workhouse.

After summarizing previous updates done to facilities at the Workhouse and mentioning a study that looked at what exactly the city’s needs are when it comes to jails, Krewson then addressed the issue of closing it on Dec. 31.

She said Corrections Commissioner Dale Glass is exploring the option of transferring those 100 inmates to a jail in Kentucky, which is about a four-hour drive from St. Louis. Krewson noted that Glass doesn’t think this is a good solution, but they will continue to consider it until a more suitable alternative is available.

“The long and short of this update is that we have a lot of things in the works but right now we have 100 detainees that are at MSI and we are not going to overcrowd [City Justice Center] and put people on the floor on mattresses in order just to close MSI in 10 days.”

Aldermanic President Lewis Reed and Comptroller Darlene Green argued with each other during the meeting, sparked by comments Green made accusing the Board of Aldermen of passing the ordinance for show, without real intention of following through.

“I don’t know what the next steps are, Madame Mayor, in terms of getting a step closer to closing MSI but I think we need to get definition to that — if in fact the ordinance had any meaning at all,” Green said.

“But as it stands now, I would declare that there was no meaning to that board bill or that ordinance that was signed, and the public should feel that some of these board bills that are signed before an election … are just gestures.” Reed said he was insulted by Green’s comments and said that a lot of work has been put into the effort and that they could not have predicted the ramifications of the coronavirus pandemic.

“It’s this kind of politics played on big issues that continue to hurt our city,” Reed said, noting the Board and Glass are working on plans in order to get the Workhouse closed. Krewson pointed out that the job of actually closing the Workhouse is the responsibility of the the mayor’s office.

Lyda Krewson

Living It

Shabazz, ‘Voice of the Streets’ continues success despite

pandemic

Streetz

105.1 radio personality aims to be a guiding light

in the community

By Danielle Brown

Of The St. Louis American

Has the coronavirus pandemic slowed the success of Dsmoovee Shabazz’s “Voice of the Streets” on Streetz 105.1, the St. Louis-based online radio station?

No, it hasn’t.

Despite ongoing crises, Shabazz has maintained high ratings while interviewing more than 400 guests from March until now. Guests have included Cori Bush, U. S. representative-elect from Missouri’s 1st Congressional District, and representatives from the St. Louis Board of Election Commissioners.

n “I’m going to funnel it all through me and make sure you get everything you need to hear and know everything that you need to know.”

- Dsmoovee Shabazz

“The pandemic didn’t stop anything for me,” Shabazz said. “It only elevated what I already had going on because I didn’t let the mentality of what’s going on stop me from achieving what I wanted to do and what I visualize.”

Shabazz realizes the importance of using due diligence in inviting guests to his show — regardless of the pandemic — his goal is to spread knowledge about good things happening in our communities.

“The word has to get out no matter what it is, who it is, where it is,” Shabazz said. “I’m going to funnel it all through me and make sure you get everything you need to hear and know everything that you need to know.”

While some local stations might focus solely on music, Shabazz saw the need to bring something different to the city by implementing a primarily community-oriented mission. As someone who has a strong sense of pride in his community and aspires to provide the people with knowledge and resources, the “Voice”

is on a mission to spread knowledge about good things happening in St.

struck the right tone. “The vision of my show is to put St. Louis on the map and give St. Louis the resources that we have, show them in a better light, and spotlight everybody in St. Louis doing something posi-

tive,” Shabazz said. Shabazz’s passion for serving through his show aligns with his new role in the Urban

See Shabazz, B6

Black Hair Matters: How Going Natural Made Me Visible

By Cara Anthony Kaiser Health News

The night before I chopped off my hair, I got nervous.

This decision felt bigger than me, given all the weight that Black women’s hair carries. But after three months of wearing hats and scarves in a pandemic when trips to the hairdresser felt unsafe, I walked into a salon emotionally exhausted but ready to finally see my natural hair.

I thought a few tears would fall, but, as the last of my chemically straightened hair floated to the floor like rain, I felt cleansed. Free. I laughed hysterically as I drove away from the salon.

Friends and family cheered me on virtually, but my father quietly worried about my decision. My dad grew up in the Jim Crow South, where many women straightened their hair to land jobs, husbands and respect. Before my big chop, he never said much about my hair beyond the occasional compliment, which is why I was surprised when he issued a warning.

“Watch it out there. Your hair is cut now,” he blurted when he saw me walking out of the house.

My mother heard him but remained silent. She had her own set of concerns. She was worried about me looking less professional.

I also had to help my now 4-year-old daughter understand why I decided to go natural. We’ve watched the animated “Hair Love” a million times. We’ve read books like “Happy Hair” by Mechal Renee Roe, “I Love My Hair!” by Natasha Anastasia Tarpley and my personal favorite, “Don’t Touch My Hair!” by Sharee Miller.

Still, my daughter had a hard time adjusting

to my haircut, often asking when I planned to get my hair styled again. She preferred my extensions, saying she thought I looked more like a princess that way. I gently explained that my hair is a style — and the one I choose — even if it’s not long and straight.

On the night of my haircut, I drove to the store more aware of how others would perceive my new look. My father, however, was more worried about my safety because my silhouette could possibly be mistaken for a Black man’s frame.

A blessing beyond the grief

‘A New Holiday’ shares Christmas story with timely significance

By Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American

What started out as a way to celebrate the 70th birthday of philanthropist and community gem Thelma Steward evolved into what director and co-writer Brian Owens feels is a divinely timed holiday musical film experience. David Steward, founder and chairman of World Wide Technology, had seen Owens’ “Soul of Ferguson Revue,” which aired on PBS this summer. He reached out in the hopes of attaining something similar in format to that musical experience and — as per usual — pulled out all the stops for his wife’s birthday, which falls just a few days before Christmas.

“Because of COVID, they couldn’t do what they would normally do,’” Owens said. “I don’t know what happened, but two-and-a-half weeks later this turned into, ‘we are doing a movie with dialogue with characters.’”

“A New Holiday” debuted on the Nine Network Monday, Dec. 21st, and aired again on Dec. 23. It will be available through Owens’ YouTube channel.

“It’s a special, special project that I think only could have happened in this time,” Owens said. “I’m excited for people to see the excellence that can happen when a project has a purpose and is tied to something bigger than itself.”

“A New Holiday” tells the story of a little girl named Thelma. She must face her first Christmas without the family matriarch — her beloved grandma Dorothy. Inspired by real-life events, this will be the Stewards first Christmas without Dorothy Steward. She died in July. It will also be the first Christmas Owens will experience without his mother Roberta Owens, who died in March.

n “A New Holiday” debuted on the Nine Network Monday, Dec. 21st, and aired again on Dec. 23. It will be available through Owens’ YouTube channel.

My family’s emotions about my hair left me tangled.

Of course, the styling of Black hair has been fraught for centuries. The CROWN Act, which passed the U.S. House in September and is now pending in the Senate, is intended to protect Black people from discrimination in schools, housing and employment based on their hairstyle. But such a law, even if passed, cannot stop bigotry, bullets and the emotional battle that comes with being a Black woman in America as seen through something as simple as our hair.

I hadn’t considered talking to my daughter about how hair could affect her personal safety until my father broke his silence. A haircut shouldn’t influence your life expectancy.

On the night of my haircut, I drove to the store more aware of how others would perceive my new look. My father, however, was more worried about my safety because my silhouette could possibly be mistaken for a Black man’s frame.

We live in just outside St. Louis, where natural hair still makes a statement for Black

See Hair, B6

“Knowing that so many people are also dealing with loss and change this year, not even just with COVID, but with life,” Owens said. “My kids are dealing with that this year — their first Christmas without their grandmother.”

Owens co-wrote

“A New Holiday” with Broadway veteran and St. Louis native Sophia Stephens.

“Sophia was the driver of this script,” Owens said.

They were building from the idea and the struggle of, “Is Christmas going to feel like Christmas?”

“Because for so many people, traditional Christmas is tied to memories with a special family member or loved one,” Owens said.

Stephens also stars in the film alongside NBC’s “The Voice” finalist Kennedy Holmes, music and stage veteran Anita Jackson and newcomer Riley Adams in the role of little Thelma.

Nine-time Grammy winner Wynton Marsalis serves as narrator for “A New Holiday” and the film features performances by Grammy winners David Sanborn, Karen Clark-Sheard and BeBe Winans. Owens also co-wrote the original music

Photo by Troy Anthony Swanson

Dsmoovee Shabazz

Louis.

Cara Anthony

Sports

InSIdE SportS

With Earl Austin Jr.

Signees for Mizzou football; girls Christmas Tournament and 1,000-pt

First-year head coach Eli Drinkwitz has been true to his word when he said that he was putting an emphasis on recruiting the talented prospects from the St. Louis area when he took over the University of Missouri football program.

Coach Drink managed to corral six excellent players from the St. Louis area during the last week’s National Signing Day, plus he received a couple of verbal commitments from two of the top prospects in the Class of 2022 from the St. Louis area. Among the top players signing with Mizzou were standout quarterback Tyler Macon of East St. Louis, who is graduating from high school early to begin his studies in Columbia in the spring session. Also signing with Mizzou were defensive end Travion Ford of Lutheran North, defensive tackle Mekhi Wingo of DeSmet, running back Tyler Hibbler of Trinity, tight end Ryan Hoerstkamp of Washington and wide receiver Dominic Lovett of East St. Louis. Lovett, a four-star recruit, had originally committed to Arizona State, but he flipped that commitment to Mizzou and signed last week.

The good recruiting news continued for the Tigers when they got verbal commitments from juniors Ja’Marion Wayne of Parkway West and Isaac Thompson of SLUH. Thompson is a 6’2” 205-pound defensive back while Wayne is a 6’3” 180-pound athlete.

One other top junior prospect from the area who committed last week was junior running back Arlen Harris, Jr. of Lutheran St. Charles, who gave a verbal pledge to Stanford. The 5’11” 205-pound

college

players

pound Harris has enjoyed a huge career at Lutheran St. Charles, having rushed for 3,636 yards and 71 touchdowns during his first three years. Visitation Tournament Continues

One of the big holiday tournaments that is still tak-

ing place is the Visitation Christmas Tournament, which annually fields many of the top girls’ programs in the St. Louis area. The action at Visitation continues on Saturday with some excellent matchups in the quarterfinals. Fourth-seeded Whitfield will face No. 5 seed Cardinal Ritter at 4 p.m.; No.

1 seed Incarnate Word vs. No. 8 seed Marquette at 5:30 p.m.; No. 10 seed Lift for Life vs. No. 2 seed Webster Groves at 7 p.m. and No. 3 seed Westminster vs. No. 6 seed Parkway North at 8:30 p.m. The semifinals will be held on Sunday evening at 7 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. The championship game is scheduled for

SportS EyE

With Alvin A. Reid

Monday night at 8:30 p.m. The biggest development of last Saturday’s first-round action came when Lift for Life defeated No. 7 seed St. Joseph’s 60-57. Making its first appearance in the Visitation Tournament, the Hawks came through with an incredible signature win for this emerging girls program. Lift for Life was

led by junior guard Taylor Brown, who had 19 points, five rebounds and four steals. Junior guard Mackenzie Wilson had 16 points, senior guard Na’Teonia Russell added 11 points while senior forward Daniyah Ward had a game-high 11 rebounds. The Whitfield Warriors defeated Eureka 59-50 in the first round on Saturday night. The victory completed a big day of competition for the Warriors, who were also in action earlier that afternoon against North County in the championship game of the Fort Zumwalt North Tournament. Whitfield defeated North County 64-36 to win the championship before heading over to Visitation to start play in the Christmas Tournament.

Area College Players reach 1,000 points

Congratulations go out to a pair of former St. Louis area high school basketball standouts who have reached the 1,000-point plateau during the collegiate careers in the St. Louis area.

Former East St. Louis High standout Deshawn Munson scored his 1,000th career point at Harris- Stowe State University earlier this season in a victory over Baker University. The 6’3” Munson reached 1,000 points at Harris-Stowe in just his 34th game with the Hornets. He was an NAIA All-American last season after leading the nation in scoring.

Former University City High standout T.J. Crockett reached the 1,000point plateau last week for Lindenwood University. The 6’1” Crockett reached the milestone last week when he scored 28 points in the Lions’ 84-72 over No. 25 UMSL. Crockett has already been named the Great Lakes Valley Player of the week twice this season.

Negro Leagues stars finally hit the number

Negro Leagues superstar James “Cool Papa” Bell was one of the best baseball players to wear St. Louis on a uniform. His statistics can now officially be compared to those of St. Louis Cardinals stars including the late Hall of Famer Lou Brock.

Major League Baseball announced last week it will recognize various Negro Leagues as “major leagues,” ending a vestige of racism that had gone on a century. Commissioner Robert Manfred said in a statement, “MLB seeks to ensure that future generations will remember the approximately 3,400 players of the Negro Leagues during this time period (192048) as Major League-caliber ballplayers. Accordingly, the statistics and records of these players will become a part of Major League Baseball’s history.” Unfortunately, many (probably most) Negro League games did not have a box score. Hall of Famer Josh Gibson will only be credited with 238 home

runs. He probably hit more than Barry Bond’s record 762. Former Cardinal Ray Lankford also hit 238 home runs. Bell is among 35 Negro Leagues players in the Hall of Fame. Baseball is a game of numbers and statistics and, finally, these players’ records are a part of baseball’s history and lore.

Bell played 10 of his 21 seasons in the Negro Leagues as a member of the St. Louis Stars. During his career he had 1,096 hits (an average of 205 hits over 162 games, the length of today’s Major League season) and a .317 batting average. He averaged 29 doubles, 10 triples, seven home runs and 27 stolen bases per 162 games.

MLB historian John Thorn said in the MLB statement, “The perceived deficiencies of the Negro Leagues’ structure and scheduling were born of MLB’s exclusionary practices, and denying them Major League status has been a double penalty, much like that exacted of Hall of Fame candidates prior to Satchel Paige’s

induction in 1971.” Paige was the first Negro Leagues player inducted into the Hall of Fame.

STL in the NBA?

Last January, Chicago bil-

Topps created this baseball card honoring James “Cool Papa” Bell’s Hall of Fame in 1974.

has the money. He might get his opportunity to land an expansion NBA team in a few years.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver told media members on Monday his league has studied “the ramifications of expanding beyond 30 teams.”

“I think I’ve always said that it’s sort of the manifest destiny of the league that you expand at some point. You know, we’re very appreciative of the markets that have indicated an interest in having an NBA team,” Silver said. While Seattle might be first in line since it lost its successful franchise to Oklahoma City, Chaifetz makes St. Louis a real player in the expansion game.

lionaire Richard Chaifetz told the St. Louis Business Journal, “I’d love to be involved with a team in St. Louis in the NBA. Chaifetz, a Saint Louis University graduate who founded Chicago-based ComPsych Corp., certainly

The Reid Roundup Reigning U.S. Open singles champion Naomi Osaka saluted LeBron James Colin Kaepernick, U.S, women’s soccer star Megan Rapinoe and other stalwarts of equality in a New York Times op-ed published Monday. “Just because we are

athletes doesn’t mean we are unaffected by what happens around the country, nor does it obligate us to keep our mouths shut,” Osaka wrote… Secondyear Miami coach Brian Flores is a favorite for NFL Coach of the Year honors. He’s stepping up for a Black head coach candidate – Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy. “If EB’s not a head coach here soon, something’s wrong,” Flores said… After leading the Detroit Lions to a playoff berth and back-to-back 9-7 seasons, Jim Caldwell was fired in 2018 and replaced by Matt Patricia. Patricia was fired earlier this season. Caldwell has interviewed for the Houston Texans job. 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.”

Alvin A. Reid

Earl Austin Jr.

Among the top players signing with Mizzou were standout quarterback Tyler Macon of East St. Louis.

St. LouiS american Career Center St.

CIRCUIT COURT FACILITY SERVICES SUPERVISOR

St. Louis County Circuit Court is seeking a Facility Services Supervisor to perform work of marked difficulty in planning, scheduling, coordinating and supervising the activities of facilities staff assigned to the Court’s Operations Department. This position includes coordination of facility and maintenance issues in the Court’s building and satellite offices. Work includes supervision of custodial services, food services, laundry, Family Court security officers and transportation officers, office supply inventory, and telecommunications.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration (4 years of related experience working may be substituted in lieu of college) or a related area is preferred, plus at least 2 years of experience in facilities management, office management, property management, or a related area; prior experience in food service management is desirable; or any equivalent combination of training and experience. The salary range is $45,399.60-$72,639.36. This position is eligible for 10% addition to pay. TO APPLY: Complete an online application and submit a resume and cover letter by the end of the day on December 30, 2020: http://agency. governmentjobs.com/stlouis/default. cfm EOE. Please contact the Human Resources Department at 615-4471 (voice) or RelayMo 711 or 800-735-2966 if you need any accommodations in the application process, or if you would like this posting in an alternative form.

PRESIDENT & CEO

The International Institute of St. Louis is seeking its next President & CEO. For further information and to apply, click here: https://bit.ly/34W8t0b

DEPUTY SHERIFFCIVIL PROCESS

The St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office is seeking applicants for the position of Deputy Sheriff- Civil Process. Starting salary: $14.49/hr ($30,139.20 annually).

The individual selected for this position uses their personal vehicle to serve legal documents such as summons, subpoenas, garnishments, and orders of protection to residences and businesses in an assigned area within St. Louis County (All work related mileage expense is reimbursed to the employee at 100% of the IRS mileage reimbursement rate). The employee also performs administrative duties related to service of those documents, serves as a fill-in bailiff in the St. Louis County courthouse on an as-needed basis, and performs other additional duties as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

1 year of education, training, or experience in law enforcement, investigations, or corrections, or completion of an accredited law enforcement training program, or any equivalent combination of education or experience. TO APPLY: Complete an online application at https://www. governmentjobs.com/careers/stlouis under the title “SHERIFF POSITIONS”

EOE. Please contact the St. Louis County Division of Personnel at 615-5429 (voice) or RelayMo 711 or 800-735-2966 if you need any accommodations in the application process.

BAILIFF

The St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office is seeking applicants for the position of Bailiff located in the St. Louis County Courthouse in Clayton. Starting salary: $14.11/hr ($29,348.80 annually). Bailiffs maintain security by inspecting and securing the courtroom, surrounding hallways and doors, and the judge’s chamber before and after court sessions. Bailiffs maintain order by observing courtroom proceedings to prevent unnecessary disruptions and taking custody of individuals as instructed by the judge. Bailiffs provide assistance to the jury panel by giving instructions, answering general questions, ensuring no contact occurs with unauthorized materials or persons, and escorting to and from the jury deliberation room. Bailiffs provide assistance to the judge and courtroom personnel by reviewing courtroom documents for completion, serving legal papers, and by filing, retrieving, and faxing documents. Bailiffs also respond to medical emergencies as appropriate and perform additional duties as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

1 year of education, training, or experience in law enforcement, investigations, or corrections, or completion of an accredited law enforcement training program, or any equivalent combination of education or experience. TO APPLY: Complete an online application at https://www. governmentjobs.com/careers/stlouis under the title “SHERIFF POSITIONS”. EOE. Please contact the St. Louis County Division of Personnel at 615-5429 (voice) or RelayMo 711 or 800-735-2966 if you need any accommodations in the application process.

SPECIALIST ACCOUNT SERVICES QUALITY CONTROL

REGULATORY REPORTING ANALYST I

The Regulatory Reporting Analyst is responsible for all aspects of data quality and analysis of transactional claim data being sent to Regulatory Reporting bureaus and agencies. They will partner with internal and external data providers to ensure the quality of incoming data, as well as resolve data issues while strategically trying to drive continuous improvement efforts to eliminate root causes. This position within the Regulatory Reporting Unit is responsible for providing accurate transactional claim and associated premium data to allow for making the best business decisions possible

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

Responsible for performing thorough inspections of PSA issued policies and policy transactions. This includes workers’ compensation, commercial auto and general liability lines of business. Additional documents will include state mandatory workers’ compensation posting notices, auto ID cards when applicable and any other state required documents issued from the PSA department.

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

LOSS PORTFOLIO TRANSFER CLAIMS MANAGER

Responsible for handling assigned claims from initial assignment to closure, as well as provide assistance in various administrative functions associated with the Loss Portfolio Transfer (LPT) Workers’ Compensation line of business. To apply, please visit: https://www.safetynational.com/ careers-page/

Safe Connections is hiring for the following positions: • Part-Time Crisis Helpline Advocate • Full-Time Adult Therapist LPC/LCSW • Adult Services Clinical Manager LPC/LCSW

Full Description and Apply at safeconnections.org

The Mission of Safe Connections is to reduce the impact and incidence of relationship violence and sexual assault through education, crisis intervention, counseling and support services.

CORRECTIONAL OFFICER

The City of Jennings is seeking to hire a full time Correctional Officer. Duties entail working a 12-hour shift that includes: booking, processing and supervising prisoners. Must be high school graduate or GED; 21 years of age and have no disqualifying criminal history. Valid driver’s license preferred. Starting salary C-8-C $ 30,571. Must complete corrections application available at Jennings City Hall, 2120 Hord Ave. or online at www.cityofjennings.org NO RESUMES ACCEPTED WITHOUT COMPLETED APPLICATION! Returned application must include a current record check from St. Louis City and County Police Dept. Application accepted until January 8, 2021 at 5 p.m.

PROGRAM ACCOUNTANT

Responsible for claims payment funds for primary workers’ compensation, Auto/ GL and WC and daily cash deposits for all companies.

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

SENIOR FINANCIAL REPORTING ACCOUNTANT

Ensure accuracy of STAT and GAAP accounting and reporting. Prepare and review subsidiary Agency’s financial information/results. Prepare analyses during the month end close process, complete tasks associated with the Company’s quarterly and annual statutory and GAAP reporting requirements. Assist with preparation of Capital Models. Ensure accuracy of information reported to rating agencies. Complete special projects for the department.

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

The City of Jennings is seeking to hire Code Enforcement Inspector. Duties include conducting interior/exterior inspections, writing reports, issuing citations, and testifying in court. Must be familiar with ICC codes and have current valid driver’s license. Three years of experience as an inspector and ICC certification preferred. Starting annual salary $32,538.00 (GS-11). Applications available at Jennings City Hall, 2120 Hord Ave. or at www.cityofjennings.org NO RESUMES ACCEPTED WITHOUT COMPLETION OF OUR APPLICATION! Completed applications may be mailed, emailed to jobs@cityofjennings.org or faxed to 314-388-3999. Applications accepted until January 8, 2021.

FINANCIAL REPORTING ACCOUNTANT

Ensure internal management reports, reports used in monthly/quarterly/annual accounting close process and internal management presentations are complete and accurate and prepared on a timely basis. To apply, please visit: https://www.safetynational. com/careers-page/

DATA QUALITY ANALYST II

Responsible for all aspects of data quality and analysis. Will be accountable for developing data quality reporting which requires analytical skills and an aptitude for data, as well as resolve data issues while strategically trying to drive continuous improvement efforts to eliminate root causes. This position partners with assigned business units and provides accurate data to allow for making the best business decisions possible. Must identify and drive continuous improvements in the quality and availability of corporate data. To apply, please visit: https://www.safetynational.com/ careers-page/

EXCITING new position has just opened up with Parents as Teachers National Center… We are hiring for a National Director of Equity!

The National Director of Equity serves as the primary subject matter expert and architect for Parents as Teachers National Center’s diversity and cross-cultural relations plans and programs that has an international impression. This position has a broad reach with building up an organizational culture surrounding diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) efforts and aims to foster diversity across — and beyond — the organization, from staff, to vendors and suppliers, to the community organizations they partner with and support, to the PATNC Board of Directors.

Please visit parentsasteachers.org to learn more about us, view a full job description, and apply today! CODE

St. LouiS american Bids

NOTICE TO MINORITY & DISADVANTAGED BUSINESSES

Poettker Construction Company is seeking bids from minority and disadvantaged businesses for the MUHC – Renovate Areas in PCT and CCA for CHPS and CBCU project at the University of Missouri in Columbia, MO. A Diversity Participation goal of 10% MBE / 10% Combined WBE, DBE, Veteran Owned Business and 3% SDVE has been established for this contract. All interested and certified businesses should contact Robert Schubert at 618-526-3385 or rschubert@poettkerconstruction.com to discuss opportunities. All bids must be received by EOB on Monday, January 4th. Bid documents are available for download through the following link: https://securecc.smartinsight.co/#/ PublicBidProject/555070

400 South Germantown Road

Breese, IL 62230

Phone: 618-526-7213 Fax: 618-526-7654

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BID

S. M. Wilson & Co. is formally requesting bids for the renovations to MUHC - Various Locations - Renovate Areas in PCT and CCA for CHPS and CBCU in Columbia, MO.

The bid date/time will be January 5th, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. CST.

Bids may be emailed to bids@smwilson.com (preferred method), or through Building Connected.

Drawings, Specifications and Front End Documents can be downloaded via Building Connected. Please visit https://smwilson.com for a link to the planroom.

Please contact Greg Kutz; greg.kutz@smwilson.com for more information.

Bid

Notice is hereby given that The Metropolitan St.

SITE

CLEARING AND GRUBBING RFP 2021

The Saint Louis Zoo seeks proposals from qualified companies to provide site clearing within the boundary limits. All tree clearing must be completed by April 1, 2021. Site clearing and grubbing will take place on the Saint Louis Zoo’s WildCare Park to prepare for the installation of a new perimeter fence to secure the 425-acre property. Bid documents are available as of 12/23/2020 on the Saint Louis Zoo website: stlzoo.org/vendor

Notice To Small (SBE), Disadvantaged (DBE), Minority (MBE), Women’s (WBE), Service Disabled Veteran Owned (SDVOB) & Veteran Owned (VOB) Businesses Advertisement River City Construction, L.L.C., 6640 American Setter Drive, Ashland, Missouri 65010, (573) 657-7380 (Phone) (573) 657-7381 (Fax) Is Seeking Qualified Small, Disadvantaged, Minority, Women’s, Service Disabled Veteran Owned & Veteran Owned Businesses For The University of Missouri CP210751 –RENOVATE AREAS IN PCT AND CCA FOR CHPS AND CBCU Columbia, Missouri: for subcontracting opportunities in the following areas: demolition, rough carpentry, roofing, doors, glazing, painting, drywall, flooring, specialties, seismic protection, plumbing, fire suppression, HVAC, electrical, communications, electronic safety. All interested and qualified SBE, DBE, WBE, SDVOB, AND VOB businesses should contact, in writing, (certified letter, return receipt requested) Justin Beaty or Joe Seymour to discuss the subcontracting opportunities. All negotiations must be completed prior to the bid opening date1/05/2021 @ 1:30 P.M. Proposals will be evaluated in order on the basis of low responsive bid

MBE/WBE/DBE/ Veteran/SDVE

PJ Hoerr, Inc. Is Soliciting Construction Bids for the following; University of Missouri, Columbia University MUHC – Various Locations Renovate Areas in PCT and CCA for CHPS & CBCU Bid Date: 1/5/21 @ 1:30pm Contact: Gabriel Rodriguez, gabe@pjhoerr.com Phone: 309-688-9567 Phone: 309-688-9556

www.stlamerican.com

ADVERTISING AND MARKETING SERVICES

The Missouri Lottery is accepting bids for the purpose of establishing a contract for advertising and marketying services. The bid document with the specifications can be obtained by going to http://www.molottery.com/ learnaboutus/bid_opportunities.shtm or by contacting Melissa Blankenship at melissa.blankenship@molottery. com or 573-751-4050.

NOTICE TO MINORITY AND WOMEN OWNED BUSINESSES

Korte & Luitjohan Contractors, Inc. is seeking qualified Minority and Women-Owned businesses for first and second tier-level subcontractors or suppliers for the LaunchCode Techforce Center renovation project located in St. Louis, MO.

Interested subcontractors /suppliers must be certified with the Missouri Regional Certification Committee (“MRCC”) prior to bid opening.

Qualified subcontracting opportunities include the following areas: Site Work, Demolition, Masonry, Metals, Carpentry, Roofing, Finishes, Fire Suppression, Plumbing, Mechanical, and Electrical.

Interested businesses should contact Hal Klaus at: estimating@korteluitjohan.com or by phone 618-654-9877.

All negotiations must be complete prior to the bid opening on January 15, 2021 at 10:00 am. Proposals will be evaluated on the basis of lowest responsive bid received. All bids must be accompanied with proof of MBE/WBE/DBE certification.

METROPOLITAN ST. LOUIS SEWER DISTRICT

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District Requests for Quotes, Bids and Proposals are posted online for public download. Please navigate to www.msdprojectclear.org > Doing Business With Us > View Non-Capital Bids (commodities and services) or >Visit Planroom (capital construction bids)

St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

BID NOTICE

Please take notice that on November 17, 2020, the Circuit Court of St. Louis County, in Case No. 20SL-CC05483, appointed Hospitality Receivership Services, Inc. (111 Westport Plaza Dr., Suite 500, St. Louis, Missouri 63146) as the general receiver for Route 66 Hospitality, LLC (Registered Agent: SPRA Corp., 120 S. Central, Suite 1600, Clayton, Missouri 63105). Husch Blackwell LLP (190 Carondelet Plaza, Suite 600, St. Louis, Missouri 63105. Attn: Joseph P. Conran and Mohsen Pasha) seeks appointment to be counsel for Hospitality Receivership Services, Inc.

LETTING #8722

2020 Capital Main Replacement Program – New 20” Mains in Jefferson and Cass Ave.

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 January 5, 2021, 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.

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

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).

WE PUBLISH EVERY THURSDAY WE DISTRIBUTE IN ST. LOUIS COUNTY, ST. CHARLES COUNTY, ST. LOUIS CITY,AND PORTIONS OF ILLINOIS

St. LouiS american Bids & Public Notices St.

NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS

Paric Corporation is seeking proposals for the following project: MUHC Various Renovations –Renovate Areas in PCT and CCA for CHPS and CBCU in Columbia, MO.

This project includes demolition and renovation of approximately 11,500 sf of two areas within the hospital including work on the 1st floor of the PCT and the 2nd floor of the CCA.

The scope of work includes but is not limited to demolition, carpentry, casework, doors & hardware, drywall, acoustical ceilings, flooring, painting, specialties, fire sprinklers, plumbing, HVAC and electrical.

The owner has established diversity participation goals of 10% MBE, 10% combined WBE, DBE, Veteran, 3% SDVE.

Bids for this project are due on January 5, 2021, at 12:00 p.m. For any questions or would like to find out more detailed information on this opportunity, please contact Evan Chiles at 816-878-6003 or efwesley@paric.com.

All bids should be delivered to Paric via e-mail (bids@paric.com) or fax (816-878-6249).

PARIC CORPORATION IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

BID NOTICE

Great Rivers Greenway is soliciting electronic bids for the construction of Keiner Plaza Visitors Services and Maintenance Building. Go to www.greatriversgreenway. org/jobs-bids/ and submit by January 21, 2021.

CAPACITY BUILDING WORKSHOPS FOR NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS

The St. Louis Philanthropic Organization (SLPO) has partnered with Mosaic Beginnings to provide a series of capacity building workshops for nonprofit organizations. Upcoming workshops are Financial Management on January 13, 2021, and Program Evaluation on March 10, 2021, both beginning at 10:00 a.m.

The workshops are free to nonprofits, but advanced registration is required. Organizations may register for the workshops and find the 2021 Responsive Grants information via the SLPO website at www.stlphilanthropic.org

The SLPO provides funding and capacity building to nonprofit organizations whose programs and services advance the quality of life for St. Louis City Residents. Mosaic Beginnings is a management consulting firm with a diverse team of consultants with over 100 years of combined experience committed to increasing organizational capacity for organizations, helping them achieve and, often, exceed their goals.

INVITATION TO BID

OLIVE / LINDBERGH INTERCHANGE

The St. Louis Economic Development Partnership (SLEDP) is seeking proposals from qualified contractors for the Olive/Lindbergh Interchange Project. Bid documents can be obtained from www.drexeltech.com. Online correspondence to: mbrown@acceng.com , subject line to include ATTN: STP 4922(604) Olive / Lindbergh Interchange.

Sealed bid clearly marked “STP 4922(604) Olive / Lindbergh Interchange” will be received until 2:00 pm on January 12th, 2021 at the office of the St. Louis Economic Development Partnership, 7733 Forsyth Boulevard, Suite 2200, St. Louis, MO 63105. At that time, they will be opened and read aloud. A live-stream broadcast of the bid opening will be made available to all of those who wish to participate via request to mbrown@acceng.com

The Scope of Work includes the reconstruction of the Route 340 (Olive Blvd.) and Route 67 (Lindbergh Blvd.) interchange. Two new signals will be constructed along with sidewalks, lighting, bridge modifications and drainage improvements.

A pre-bid meeting will take place at 2:00 pm on January 5th, 2021. The pre-bid meeting will be held on-line. Anyone interested in participating is required to contact Mike Brown by email at mbrown@acceng.com. A link and directions for the live-stream web access will be provided. All labor used in the construction of this public improvement shall be paid a wage no less than the prevailing hourly rate of wages of work of a similar character in this locality as established by the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations (Federal Wage Rate), or state wage rate, whichever is higher.

The SLEDP hereby notifies all bidders that it will affirmatively ensure that in any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, businesses owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals will be afforded full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, religion, creed, sex, age, ancestry, or national origin in consideration for an award.”

All bidders must be on MoDOT’s Qualified Contractor List per Section 102.2 of the Missouri Standard Specifications for Highway Construction, 2019 Edition including all revisions. The contractor questionnaire must be on file 7 days prior to bid opening.

Contractors and sub-contractors who sign a contract to work on public works project provide a 10-Hour OSHA construction safety program, or similar program approved by the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations, to be completed by their on-site employees within sixty (60) days of beginning work on the construction project.

A certified or cashier’s check or a bid bond in the amount of 5% shall be submitted with each proposal.

The SLEDP reserves the right to reject any or all bids, in whole or in part, and to waive any irregularities with regard to the bidding process. If a contract is made, the project will be awarded to the lowest, responsive, responsible Bidder based on the sole determination of the SLEDP.

Specifications are also available for viewing or purchase at Cross Rhodes Reprographics located at 2731 S. Jefferson Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63118 or at www.stlmsdplanroom.com. All bidders must obtain a set of plans and specifications in order to submit a bid in the name of the entity submitting the bid.

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

The DBE Goal for this project is 14%

No 2nd tier subcontracting will be allowed on this project.

The SLEDP intends to issue a notice to proceed in the spring of 2021.

SEALED BIDS

B i d s f o r Replace Roofs and Renovate Interior, Project No. C1903-01 will be received b y F M D C , State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, January 19, 2021. For specific project i n f o r m a t i o n and ordering plans, go to: http://oa.mo. gov/facilities

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE:

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

METROPOLITAN ST. LOUIS SEWER DISTRICT ST. LOUIS MISSOURI LEMAY WWTF

SECONDARY BUILDING DRAIN LINE REPLACEMENT (IR) CONTRACT LETTING NO. 13462-015.1

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

Notice is hereby given that The Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District (District) will receive sealed bids for Lemay WWTF Secondary Building Drain Line Replacement (IR) under Letting No. 13462-015.1, at this office, 2350 Market Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63103, until 02:00 PM on January 21, 2021. Bids can be deposited in the bid box located on the First Floor of the District’s Headquarters located at 2350 Market Street, St. Louis, MO 63103, prior to the 2:00 p.m. bid deadline, or Bidders have the option to electronically submit their bid via email. Bidders shall A general description of the work to be done under these contract documents can be found in Section 01 11 35 SUMMARY OF PROJECT, of Part 5 – Specifications of the Bidding Documents.

The work to be done under these contract documents consists of:

· Removal and replacement of sanitary and roof drain piping, fittings and valves.

· Removal and replacement of pipe and structural support fasteners.

· Insulating of new piping.

Bids will be received only from companies that are pre-qualified by the District’s Engineering Department for: Building Contractors or Mechanical/Electrical/ Plumbing Contractors.

The Engineers Opinion of Probable Cost is $ 324,000.00.

Plans and Specifications are available for free electronic download. Please go to MSD’s website and look for a link to “ELECTRONIC PLANROOM.” Plans and Specifications are also available for viewing or purchase at Cross Rhodes Reprographics located at 1712 Macklind Avenue, St. Louis MO 63110. All bidders must obtain a set of plans and specifications in order to submit a bid in the name of the entity submitting the bid. The Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

A non-mandatory Pre-Bid conference will be held at this office, 2350 Market Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63103, on December 23, 2020, at 9:00 a.m., local time.

A site visit will be conducted following the pre-bid conference.

Continued from B1

League of Metropolitan St. Louis’ Serving Our Streets Initiative, which works toward fighting violent crime while focusing on community outreach and interaction with residents in high crime and poverty-stricken areas.

“I’m in the streets asking people what they need, whether it be rental assistance, mortgage assistance, food, childcare; anything that can help empower them or better their lives.” Shabazz said.

One might look at Shabazz’s accomplishments and be surprised that he’s only been doing radio for two years. However, the journey wasn’t swift. Or easy. Four years ago, Shabazz was working for the U.S. Postal Service, a job with which he was dissatisfied. In walking away from the 9-to-5 routine, he launched party promotions and hosting as a side gig.

“I was so infatuated with it that I kept trying to grow,” Shabazz said. “I started to get more comfortable with being on stage in front of people and interacting with them. I came into a new space where I was more confident in who I was and what I was doing.”

While he enjoyed the fun factor of pumping up the crowd and making people feel good, he had a burning passion to do more than host at hot clubs and venues. He wanted to leverage it into a lucrative career where he could make more money, then shift into servicing a different target audience.

After doing substantial research, Shabazz stumbled across careers in radio and applied for positions at local stations. Everyone rejected him. All that changed in July 2018, when he got the phone call that changed his life: Trumaine “DJ Tab” Barnett-Epps, owner of Streetz 105.1 radio station offered him the job of his dreams.

“There were numerous

things that stood out when it came to Dsmoovee, but the one thing that really stuck with me was his passion for the St. Louis community,” BarnettEpps said. “Anytime I spoke with Dsmoovee, he always spoke about bettering the community, the people, the kids and himself.”

Before his stint at Streetz 105.1, Dsmoovee was the sole caregiver for his mother until she died of breast cancer in June 2018. During that time, the mother of his child was also pregnant. He became caught up with mixed emotion that spiraled into depression causing him not to leave the house for six months. The baby’s mother named her Daya

Jackson. It was Daya, whose name means “compassion,” who was instrumental in pulling the now 28-year-old father out of depression. He credits the 2-year-old with guiding him to better days.

“I have to give credit to my daughter because that’s literally what woke me up in the midst of everything that was going on,” Shabazz said.

“I’m not going to stop because of a traumatic experience. I must keep going. My mother would want me to keep going because she would want me to be the best father and give my daughter a better life. That’s my motivation for change and giving her a better life.”

Continued from B1

women. If my buzz cut made me look more like a Black man, would the cops in our town treat me differently? In my dad’s eyes, my femininity increased my chances of making it home safely. His comments also led to a conversation about the intersection between racism and sexism. Without reading the crucial work of scholar Kimberlé Crenshaw and other activists, my father intuitively understood that society has placed Black women in a blind spot, where our gender and our race make us invisible in many ways. But that space isn’t safe, is it? A Eurocentric feminine hairstyle can’t protect Black women from the many deadly forms of racism.

Police officers can see us. Since 2015, at least 48 Black women have been killed by the police. I’m guessing the style of their hair didn’t matter to the officers pulling the triggers. In the past few years, the #SayHerName campaign

has put a spotlight on their killings, but society still pays less attention to the police killings of Black women. While most people have heard of George Floyd, Michael Brown and Breonna Taylor, fewer know about Kathryn Johnston, Korryn Gaines and India Kager. In death and life, our rights and our achievements don’t seem to hold as much weight compared with those of our male counterparts or our white ones. Yet, many Black women go to great lengths to be accepted in this country.

In the past few weeks, I’ve listened to other Black women in my life vent about their hair and navigating racism. We’ve shared our fears, hair horror stories and moments of victory. I’ve come to realize that my haircut wasn’t just about changing my style. It was also about reclaiming my crown after years of letting society control

Blessing

Continued from B1

with Grammy nominee Jarrett Johnson, Charles Ransom and Stephanie Holly. Montez Coleman, Peter Martin and Jahmal Nichols also lend their musical talents to the film.

Owens says he was able to complete the film with the help of so many others — particularly David Steward’s executive assistant Mary Unnerstall.

The film was Owens’ directorial debut. And he admitted that he was initially intimidated because of the pioneering success of David and Thelma Steward’s children within the film industry.

When the 2016 film “Manchester By The Sea” earned a “Best Picture” Academy Award nomination for Kimberly Steward, she was only the second African American woman producer to have a film nominated in the category. Oprah Winfrey was the other woman.

David Steward II’s Lion Forge Animation was among

the producers to take home

“Best Animated Short Film”

Oscar gold this year for the Matthew A. Cherry directed short “Hair Love.”

Lion Forge also provided animation for “A New Holiday.”

“To be entrusted with making this — I was humbled,” Owens said. “You have to understand, I have never made anything like this before, and yet they trusted me to do this.

He was thrilled with the outcome of the first major film project for Owens’ Life Creative Group.

For him, the film is also a testament to the caliber of talent and creative excellence that is tied to the region.

“We really can have our own industry,” Owens said.

“Sophia walked on set saying, ‘I came from L.A., back home to St. Louis to make a film.”

Through his Life Arts Ecosystem — which includes the for-profit Life Creative Group that offers production services and the non-profit Life Arts Inc. that offers training, mentorship and experience to budding artists — he hopes to see Stephens’ declaration

become the rule instead of the exception.

“With all of this talent that we have spread across the country and the world, I pray that we are able to provide opportunities for them to say, ‘I’m coming home to do a film,’” Owens said. He was also elated to have been able to offer PBS content from Black creatives that presents a universal narrative from the African American perspective.

“I think that is important,” Owens said.

“There is also the excitement in knowing that all of those who were involved will be able to say that they were a part of something that is going to serve as a true blessing for people during this season. To show that no matter what we are going through and dealing with right now, that the true meaning of Christmas is love shining from a baby in a manger — a baby who will grow up and become Savior.”

“A New Holiday” can be viewed on YouTube at www.

Youtube.com/BrianOwensSoul.

The Christmas musical ‘A New Holiday’ stars Sophia Stephens, Kennedy Holmes, Anita Jackson, Wynton Marsalis and newcomer Riley Adams. The film debuted on PBS’ Nine Network just ahead of Christmas and was filmed in St. Louis.

Dsmoovee Shabazz

Cara Anthony

Photo by Troy Anthony Swanson

A year of ups and downs, at the end of 2020, there is still hope

2020 is a year that’s going to be remembered forever for good things, and some not so good things. It was the year of the coronavirus pandemic, which struck in the spring and continued to hold on with a vengeance through the end of the year.

It was the year when President Donald Trump failed to win reelection, while steadfastly refusing to concede his defeat, in spite of rulings all the way up to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Among the brighter moments, scores of young people registered and turned out to vote — many for the first time. In part, those young people helped Cori Bush make history when she defeated long-time incumbent Congressman Lacy Clay and became the first Black woman to be elected to Congress in the state of Missouri. California Sen. Kamala Harris was

January

2 An urgent care facility’s name possibly being changed to Homer G. Phillips Hospital had many questioning the motive behind it. One of the people concerned with it was Dr. Earle U. Robinson Jr., who has strong ties to the history behind the name. His namesake father was part of the first group of interns at the hospital. Will Ross, RD, MPH, who is co-authoring on the hospital also shares concerns surrounding Paul McKee, developer of the facility’s plans.

2 The Missouri Supreme Court was presented the opportunity to make history in the case of Lamar Johnson. This was the first case to challenge a conviction based on an investigation by the Conviction Unit of the City of St. Louis Circuit Attorney’s Office. Johnson was convicted of murdering Marcus Boyd

another Black woman who made history, when former Vice President Joe Biden chose her as his running mate, before their ticket won in November, setting Harris up to be the first Black woman to serve as vice president of the United States of America.

This year will be remembered as the one in which Lyda Krewson decided one term as mayor of St. Louis was enough for her, leaving the door open for City Treasurer Tishaura Jones, Board of Aldermen President Lewis Reed and Alderman Cara Spencer of the 20th Ward and others to try to replace her.

Most of all 2020 will be remembered as the year when medical professionals, first responders and other essential workers put their lives on the line every day to serve and protect others, while a deadly disease raged around them.

on Oct. 30, 1994, however, evidence indicates that Johnson was at a friend’s house during the time of the crime.

2 St. Louis has the opportunity to lead the state of Missouri in a much-needed public health reform. Through a needle exchange program, sterile needles are offered to people who inject drugs.

9 St. Louis City Treasurer and now mayoral candidate Tishaura Jones felt that Mayor Lyda Krewson’s response to homicides in the city is ineffective because there is no solid plan set in place.

9 The felony diversion program run by St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner addresses mass incarceration and aims to decrease crime, but is met with resistance by judges in the 22nd Circuit Court.

16 The City of St. Louis budgeted $6.6

January 16 - Organizers of the Close the Workhouse campaign unveil their plan to decrease the inmate population in St. Louis jails and implement a two-year plan to close the Workhouse.

million for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund, the Equal Housing and Opportunity Council asked for $10 million.

16 Organizers of the Close the Workhouse campaign unveil their plan to decrease the inmate population in St. Louis jails and implement a two-year plan to close the Workhouse.

16 A documentary detailing the life of former Congressman Bruce Franks Jr., who represented the 78th District in the Missouri House of Representatives, earned an Academy Award nomination.

17 St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson raised civil service minimum wage to $15, intending to help the city fill dozens of vacant positions.

23 The Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis opened a community center on MLK Day. The center is used as a home base for the 2020 Census outreach efforts, employment resources, and resources for parents of Head Start children.

22 A resolution was made on MLK Day between the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, St. Louis County, and Wellston that allows the city to build new low-income housing units, restore some of the old buildings, and demolish about 15 units that are in the worst condition.

February

5 Mind’s Eye Radio serves the blind; it provides live sports, theatre, newspapers and magazines on radio.

5 The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services awarded 192 state medical marijuana dispensary licenses.

5 The St. Louis County Justice Center swore in nine women as correctional officers.

5 Concordance Academy of Leadership provides support to ex-inmates to celebrate their reentry into society.

5. St Louis’ own DJ Charlie Chan Soprano performed at the 62nd annual Grammy Awards alongside Run-DMC and Aerosmith.

6 The Covenant House Missouri offers homeless youth career services and shelter.

6 St. Louis County Executive Sam Page announced a minimum wage increase, saying workers will make at least $13 an hour ‘as soon as practicable,’ and $15 an hour by 2022.

13 CBC basketball standout Caleb Love was selected to play in the Nike Hoops Summit in Portland, Oregon.

27 The COVID-19 outbreak circulated around the world, but there weren’t any confirmed cases in Missouri.

March

5 Kristine Hendrix, president of the University City School District Board of Education was awarded $3,500 after she was tased three times by St. Louis police following a protest in 2015.

11 Joe Biden won the Democratic presidential preference primary in Missouri.

20 The COVID-19 outbreak was declared as a pandemic by the World Health Organization, positive results from the virus made its first Missouri appearance in St. Louis County.

20 St. Louis Public Schools and various charter schools in St. Louis worked in collaboration to provide free meals at 33 school sites due to school closures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

20 St. Louis prosecutors worked toward keeping new inmates from going to jails in St. Louis County and the City of St. Louis to prevent a potential COVID-19 outbreak, and tried to reduce current jail populations.

21 Judy Wilson-Griffin, an African American nurse at SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital was the first person in the St. Louis region to die from COVID19.

25 Jazzmond Dixon died from COVID19 at the age of 31, her death was the first novel coronavirus-related death in the City of St. Louis.

25 The St. Louis County Council approved $1.5 million in COVID-19 response funding to protect first responders, pay for testing costs for the uninsured and for medical supplies.

20 The St. Louis region began shutting down; St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson ordered that people could only gather in groups of 10 people or less, following an announcement of the city’s second posi-

tive case of the coronavirus.

April

1 Concerns rise for north St. Louis as CARESTL was poorly-supplied with personal protection equipment for coronavirus testing.

2 A team of local and national civil rights organizations asked the federal court to restrict St. Louis residents from being held in city jails due to not being able to afford to pay cash bail.

2 Cemeteries implemented changes to graveside services in response to COVID19.

2 With the COVID-19 pandemic, education has a new look for teachers and students; teachers are perceived as superheroes during the crises.

16 Milkayla Allen argued that the fight against COVID-19 could be met by expanding Medicaid in Missouri.

30 COVID-19 survivor Richelle Herron embarked on a career in nursing.

May

7 — St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson clears out a homeless tent city, including the city-provided restroom and hand washing stations, even as the city has a waiting list for shelter space.

7 — St. Louis County Police Officer

Preston Marquart is charged with involuntary manslaughter in the death of 12-year-old Akeelah “Kee Kee” Jackson.

7 — The federal government provides $1,200 stimulus checks to citizens amid the coronavirus pandemic.

14 — First reports following the start of the pandemic indicate Black people die from the disease at a disproportionate rate.

14 — St. Louis and St. Louis County lift the COVID-19 stay-at-home orders.

14 — Annie Malone May Day Parade goes virtual due to COVID-19.

21 — Marvia Gray sues the Des Peres Police Department after she says they brutalized her and her adult son when they were returning a TV to Sam’s Club on Manchester Road.

21 — The Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis distributes $1 million in free food, necessities and safety supplies since the onset of COVID-19.

21 — Missouri State Parks Department reopens campgrounds and beaches to the public after shutting down due to COVID19.

28 — Gov. Mike Parson places the Medicaid expansion initiative on the primary ballot.

June

4 — Ferguson elects Ella Jones as mayor, making her the first Black person

St. Louis Metropolitan Police have applied for warrants against Mark and Patricia McCloskey,in St. Louis on Tuesday July 14, 2020. The couple aimed guns at Black Lives Matter protesters after the group of about 300 came into their neighborhood in St. Louis on Sunday, June 28, 2020. The two have defended their actions by saying they felt their lives were being threatened.

and first woman to be elected to the office.

4 — Thousands of people in St. Louis march for days in protest of police brutality in the wake of George Floyd’s killing by a police officer in Minneapolis.

4 — Planned Parenthood’s abortion license is renewed after committee rules the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services wrongly withheld the organization’s license.

11 — The Muny cancels 2020 season due to the coronavirus pandemic, creating historic pause after more than a century of shows.

18 — Prosecutors drop charges against Ferguson activist Michael Avery, after they accused him of inciting a riot via Facebook posts.

18 — Florissant officer charged with felony assault and armed criminal action for striking man with an SUV.

18 — Former Pagedale mayor Mary L. Carter dies at age 82.

25 — An inmate at the St. Louis Workhouse tests positive for COVID-19.

25 — Ferguson’s first Black and first woman mayor, Ella Jones, is sworn at the Ferguson Empowerment Center.

25 — More than a dozen events hosted to celebrate Juneteenth, including “The People’s Rally” in downtown St. Louis.

Photo by Bill Greenblatt/UPI

July

2 — Community leaders and residents alike call for St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson’s resignation after she publicly reads the names and addresses of people calling on her to defund the police. The incident and subsequent reaction gained national attention.

2 — St. Louis County Executive Sam Page signs a memo of understanding with the Ethical Society of Police recognizing the organization as a local employee association.

2 — St. Louis rapper Huey is shot and killed in Kinloch, in St. Louis County, at the age of 31.

9 — Expect Us organizes a protest against police brutality in front of the Florissant Police Department, where 17 protestors were arrested, the majority of the group was maced and several people were injured.

16 — The Keep Kids in Class Coalition holds a march to demand that resource officers are removed from schools.

23 — U.S. Rep John Lewis of Georgia dies at the age of 80 after battling pancreatic cancer.

23 — St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kimberly Gardner charges Mark and Patricia McCloskey after they confront peaceful protesters on their private residential street in the Central West End.

23 — The St. Louis Board of Aldermen voted unanimously to pass a bill that would close the Workhouse by the end of the year.

30 — Urban League and Grace Hill come together in a historic merger, creating a powerhouse social services agency and extending Head Start’s federal contract for five more years.

30 — Two local nonprofits are chosen to operate two new Cure Violence locations in the Walnut Park neighborhood and Dutchtown.

August

6 — Progressive candidate and pastor Cori Bush unseats 10-term incumbent U.S. Rep. William Lacy Clay, whose family has held the District 1 House seat since the 1960s, in the Democratic primary.

6 — Wesley Bell announces he will not file charges against former Ferguson Officer Darren Wilson in the shooting death of Michael Brown.

6— Police, using the kettling tactic, arrest 17 people in St. Charles during a march to honor the life of U.S. Rep John Lewis.

6— Missouri voters pass Amendment 2, which expands Medicaid health coverage to nearly a quarter-million people in the state.

13 — Joe Biden selects U.S. Sen. Kamala Harris of California to be his vice presidential running mate.

13 — Community members and activists gather in remembrance of Michael Brown in Ferguson on the sixth anniversary of his death.

13 — St. Louis receives an infusion of federal law enforcement resources, including 50 federal investigators from the Department of Homeland Security and $1 million from the Bureau of Justice to help combat violent crimes.

20 — Researchers at SLU begin enrolling participants for a coronavirus vaccine trial study, but struggle to enroll Black people, who are disproportionately affected by the pandemic.

27 — A settlement in a federal class action lawsuit is announced by The American Civil Liberties Union of Missouri ensuring that people who are incarcerated in Missouri prisons will receive Hepatitis-C treatment and education.

27 — Bishop Edward K. Braxton retires after 15 years of service as the bishop of

the Catholic Diocese of Belleville.

27 — Missouri attorney general releases a report showing — for the 19th year in a row — that Black motorists in Missouri are far more likely to be stopped and searched than White motorists.

SEPTEMBER

1 — Dr. Jovita Oruwari, an oncologic breast cancer surgeon, seeks to change the standard of care for women of color who have breast cancer.

3 — Darrion Cockrell and Clarence Hines are two of seven finalists to be recognized as the 2021 Missouri Teacher of the Year.

3 — Gregory F.X. Daly, St. Louis Collector of Revenue, paid the daughter of his chief of staff, Tom Vollmer $250,000 for legal fees with no bit or contract. Daly defended his actions saying nepotism concerns only relatives of elected officials, not relatives of employees.

10 — North St.. Louis could lose millions in census undercount. The Center for Urban Research’s Census 2020 Had to Count map showed a less than 30 percent response rate to the U.S. Census in large swaths of north St. Louis.

OCTOBER

8 — Mark and Patrical McCloskey will be arraigned on Wednesday, Oct. 14, after being indicted by a St. Louis grand jury on a charge of exhibiting a weapon and tampering with evidence.

15 — Yvonne Cookse joined the Regional Arts Commission of St.Louis as president and CEO. The RAC is the largest public funder of the arts in the region.

15 — Steven Player will take on the newly established role of vice president of diversity, equity and inclusion for BJC HealthCare on Nov. 1. The role was established to advance BJC’s mission to provide equitable, culturally aware care for all patients and ensure a culturally competent workforce.

15 — An estimated 6.5%, or 95,000 Missouri children were uninsured last year, according to a report released by the Georgetown University Center for Children and Families. That number has increased by more than one-third since 2016.

22 — A report released by Forward Through Ferguson details the resurgence of segregation in St. Louis-area public schools, and outlines key room causes of the student achievement gap.

29 — As promised, St. Louis County Executive Dr. Sam Page vetoed two bills on Monday, Oct. 26, that the County

Photo by Wiley Price St. Louis American

Det. Tracy Cole a 14-year veteran with the St. Louis Police Department stands at the memorial for fallen police officer Tamarris Bohannon at the Police Officers Association in south St. Louis Wed. Sept. 2, 2020.

Council passed last week by a 4-3 vote.

29 — The Arts and Education Council awarded 13 organizations a total of $115,000 in funding through the Arts and Healing Initiative, in partnership with the Missouri Foundation for Health The program is aided at increasing the capacity to heal through the arts.

NOVEMBER

5 — Cori Bush makes history as she becomes the first Black woman in Missouri to be elected to Congress. In her acceptance speech she gave a special shout out to the Ferguson frontliners.

5 —The presidential election is too close to call. While voters in Missouri stood

with President Donald Trump, a few key states were still counting ballots late into Election Night and a few days beyond.

5 — A 10-year study across eight U.S. jurisdictions, including St. Louis, shows misdemeanor arrests decline while racial disparities persist.

5 — Sgt. Donnell Walters is named president of the Ethical Society of Police. Founded in 1972, the Society is an association of more than 300 police officers, park rangers and civilians that advocates for racial and gender equity in law enforcement.

5 — Phone calls from families on the very day of losing their homes have jumped 300% at Catholic Charities of Southern Missouri. Advocates fear dire conse-

quences when a moratorium on evictions expires.

5 — The St. Louis Metropolitan Pandemic Task Force and St. Louis County Executive Sam Page have called for everyone to get on board with simpler measures to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus.

12 — When Joe Biden and Kamala Harris were declared victors in Pennsylvania on Nov. 7, the state’s 20 electoral votes guaranteed them victory in the 202 race for president and vice president. Harris will become the first African American and first woman elected vice president — if the incumbent concedes.

DECEMBER

3 — Approximately 11 St. Louis public schools should be closed for good, according to a recommendation from Superintendent Kelvin Adams. On that list is Charles H. Sumner High School in the Ville neighborhood of north St. Louis.

3 — Jennings schools superintendent announces his retirement. In a letter to the Jennings School District, Board of Education and community, Art McCoy wrote that it had been his honor to serve “the best, wisest and multiple award-winning JSD Board of Education.

3 — Black officiating crew made history in the NFL. The crew, Jerobe Borger, Barry Anderson, Anthony Jeffries, Julian Mapp, Carl Johnson, Dale Shaw and Greg Steed made the all the call in the gabe between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Los Angeles Rams on Nov. 23.

3 — Former Belleville bishop Wilton Gregory became the first Black American cardinal after Pope Francis chose him as one of 13 bishops and priests elevated to the College of Cardinals at the Vatican.

10 — With a new $55 million pledge, the St. Louis-based Enterprise Holdings foundation joins business and philanthropic organizations around the nations in responding to calls for racial and social equity in the wake of the killing of George Floyd

10 — President-elect Joe Biden selects retired Army Gen. Lloyd Austin to be his secretary of Defense. If confirmed by the U.S. Senate, Lloyd would be the first Black man to lead the Department of Defense.

17 — The St. Louis Public Schools Board postpones a vote on whether to close 11 schools next year. The Board followed the recommendation of Superintendent Kelvin Adams to wait 30 days for additional feedback and brainstorming.

17 — It’s been five months since the St. Louis Board of Aldermen unanimously passed a bill to close the Workhouse by the end of the year, yet what will happen come Jan. 1 at the jail remains unclear.

Cori Bush defeated longtime Rep. William Lacy Clay Tuesday Nov. 3, 2020 in Missouri’s Democratic primary, ending a political dynasty that has spanned more than 50 years. Bush’s victory came in a rematch of 2018.

Photo by Wiley Price St. Louis American

In Memoriam 2020

January

1

– Nick Gordon, the controversial partner of the late Bobbi Christina Brown, dies at age 30 in Florida, reportedly following an apparent drug overdose on New Year’s Eve.

2

– Anita Banks, widow of the late state Sen. J.B. “Jet” Banks, dies at age 95 in St. Louis.

13 – St. Louis urban radio traffic reporter Tony Johnson, known as “Tony J” dies at age 49 from brain cancer. The comedian, actor, on-air talent and creator of the Traffic Music Awards worked on Q95.5, Hot 104.FM and 99.5 FM.

23 – Ernest Jones, former executive deputy superintendent of St. Louis Public Schools and retired superintendent of Normandy School District, dies at age 90.

group won five Grammys and earned nominations for 19 songs. The internationally renowned acapella group used its music to unite South Africans during apartheid.

14 – “Boyz in the Hood” film and TV actress Esther Scott dies of a heart attack at age 66 in Santa Monica, California.

15 – Actress Nikita Pearl Waligwa, who portrayed Gloria while starring in the Disney biography, “Queen of Katwe,” dies at age 15 from a brain tumor in near Kampala, Uganda.

26 – NBA basketball great Kobe Bryant, age 41 and daughter, 13-yearold Gianna Bryant, are among nine people killed in his helicopter crash in Calabasas, California.

28 – “Funkin’ for Jamaica” lead singer and co-songwriter Toni Smith (Thomassina Carrollyne Smith) dies at age 59 of causes unknown in New York.

28 – NFL Hall of Fame Minnesota Vikings defensive end Chris Doleman dies of brain cancer at age 58. During his career, Doleman also played with the Atlanta Falcons and the San Francisco 49ers.

February

Minister Hosni Mubarak dies at age 91 in Egypt. He was ousted from office following 18 days of demonstrations during the 2011 Egyptian revolution.

March

5 – Singer Barbara Martin, the fourth and early member of The Supremes when they signed with Motown Records, dies in Detroit at age 76. She was a member of the famed group from 1960 to 1962.

6 – Jazz pianist and composer McCoy Tyner dies at age 81 at his home in New Jersey. He was the last surviving member of the momentous John Coltrane Quartet.

17 – 1970s sitcom “Good Times”actress Ja’net Dubois dies in her sleep of cardiac arrest at her home in Glendale, California at age 87.

19 – Bashar Barakah Jackson, rapper Pop Smoke, dies at the hands of a masked gunman during a home invasion in Los Angeles. He was 20 years old.

22 – Restauranteur, author and 70s model and style icon B. Smith (Barbara Elaine Smith) dies at age 70 of early onset Alzheimer’s disease in home in Long Island, New York.

24 – NASA mathematician Katherine Johnson dies at age 101 in Newport News, Virginia. Her calculations helped the spacecraft Apollo 11 land on the moon. She and other black female NASA mathematicians were portrayed in the 2016 movie “Hidden Figures.” Johnson was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Congressional Gold Medal for her service.

3 – NFL five time champion and Hall of Famer, Green Bay Packers defensive back Willie Wood who made the first Super Bowl interception, dies in Washington after suffering with advanced dementia for several years at age 83.

10 – Ladysmith Black Mambazo founder Joseph Shabalala dies at age 78 in South Africa. The

25 – St. Louis Alderman Samuel L. Moore dies at age 71. He served the Ville neighborhood’s 4th Ward since 2007, and was instrumental to St. Louis getting to host the COGIC Holy Convocation for 10 years, which brought in $43 million in revenue for the city.

25 – Egypt’s former Prime

30 – Soul singer Bill Withers dies at age 81 from heart complications in Los Angeles. The songwriter and baritone had many hits, including “Just The Two of Us,” Lovely Day,” “Use Me,” “Ain’t No Sunshine,” and Grandma’s Hands.”

April

1 – Jazz pianist and music teacher Ellis Marsalis Jr. dies of COVID-19 at age 85 in New Orleans. He was father of jazz greats Wynton and Bradford Marsalis.

29 – Former St. Louis NAACP President and STL Police Commissioner Col. Charles Edward Mischeaux Jr. dies at age 84 in Ft. Myers, Florida.

28 – R&B rock-and-roller Bobby Lewis, who sang the 60s hit “Tossin’ and Turning” dies of pneumonia at age 95 in Newark, New Jersey. Lewis’ 1961 hit spent seven weeks at No.1 on Billboard’s Hot 100 and sold over 3 million copies.

May

13 – Louisville, Kentucky, police busted in and shot and killed 26 year old Breonna Taylor as she slept in her apartment in an exchange of gunfire from her boyfriend. The man they were looking for did not live at the residence. Her death and others would prompt months of protests against police killing of unarmed black people and calls for racial justice.

20 – SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital perinatal nurse Judy Wilson-Griffin becomes the first person in St. Louis County to die of COVID-19. She was 63.

22 – Jazzmond “Jazz Dixon becomes the first person in the city of St. Louis to die from COVID-19. The biomedical services employee for the American Red Cross Blood Center was age 31.

22 – Attorney Larry L. Deskins, the first African American partner in a major law firm in St. Louis dies at age 68 after a long illness.

4 – M*A*S*H actor and former NFL football player Timothy Brown dies of dementia complications at age 82 in Palm Springs, California. Brown played for the Green Bay Packers, the Philadelphia Eagles and the Baltimore Colts.

6 – Founder of Black Enterprise magazine, Earl G. Graves Sr., dies at age 85 from Alzheimer’s in White Plains, New York. In addition to the media company focusing on black businesses and entrepreneurship, Graves also served as CEO of Pepsi Cola between 1990-1998.

9 – Rev. Carl S. Smith, pastor at New Beginning Missionary Baptist Church, vice president of the St. Louis Metropolitan Clergy Coation, and a former St. Louis police officer, dies at age 64 of COVID-19 in St. Louis.

9 – Retired St. Louis Police Colonel Gregory Hawkins dies from COVID-19 at age 71 in St. Louis.

26 – Harlem Globetrotters great Fred “Curly” Neal dies at age 77 in his home in the Houston area. He entertained millions as a Globetrotter from 1963 to 1985, appeared on numerous TV shows and served as an “Ambassador of Goodwill.”

27 –“Dean of the Civil Rights Movement,” Rev. Joseph Echols Lowery, dies at his home in Atlanta at age 98. Lowery cofounded the Southern Christian Leadership Conference with Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.

27 – St. Louis 18th Ward Committeewoman Ellen Todd dies at age 35 in St. Louis.

10 – St. Louis blues performer and elder statesman “Big” George Brock passes at age 87.

12 – U.S. Eastern District senior Judge Charles Shaw of St. Louis dies at age 75. Known for not being afraid to challenge injustice, Shaw previously served as a state circuit judge in St. Louis, assistant U.S. attorney, and as an attorney for the National Labor Relations Board.

19 – International fashion photographer and hair and makeup artist Ernest Collins dies of heart failure at age 67 at his home in Chicago.

22 – St. Louis radio personality Randy “O’Jay” Brooks dies at age 61. Brooks worked for KATZ, Majic 108 FM and most recently, 99.5 FM.

7 – Hip-Hop music executive, Vice Chairman of Revolt network, former Motown president/ CEO and Uptown Records founder, Andre Harrell dies from heart failure at age 59 in West Hollywood, California. As a rapper, Harrell was Dr. Jeckyll of the duo Dr. Jeckyll & Mr. Hyde with Alonzo Brown.

9 – The architect of Rock and Roll, Hall of Famer and never duplicator, Richard Wayne “Little Richard” Penniman, dies of bone cancer at age 87 in Tullahoma, Tennessee.

10 – Iconic soul and R&B singer, songwriter and producer Betty Wright dies of cancer at age 66 in Miami. She wrote “The Clean Up Woman”,” “Tonight Is The Night,” “No Pain, No Gain: and “Where is the Love,” which earned a 1975 Grammy for best R&B

15 – Co-founder and producing artistic director of the Unity Theatre Ensemble, Ralph Greene, dies of stomach cancer at age 78.

16 – Former White House butler to 11 presidents, Wilson Roosevelt Jerman, dies of COVID-19 at age 91. Jerman worked at the White house from 1957 until he retired in 2012.

25 – The nation and world are horrified as an unarmed, handcuffed black man, 46-yearold George Floyd, has his life squeezed out of him on live video by a knee on his neck for several minutes by white Minneapolis Police Officer Derek Michael Chauvin, sparking nationwide protests and unrest.

25 – Otis A. Jackson, former INROADS executive and St. Louis area math educator, dies of COVID-19 at age 80.

June

2 – Retired Moline Acres Police Chief and St. Louis Metro Police Captain David Dorn, 77, is shot

Katherine Johnson

Kobe Bryaant Little Richard

Tony J

and killed while responding to a burglary alarm at Lee’s Pawn and Jewelry in St. Louis during a night of unrest.

3 – Longtime Pagedale, Mo. Mayor Mary L. Carter dies at age 82 after 27 years in office. Her handpicked successor, Rev. E. G. Shields Sr., was elected as Pagedale mayor the day before she died.

3 – Writer, educator, black activist, Chicago’s Conrad Worrill, founding leader of the National Black United Front, dies at age 78. Worrill promoted African independence and self-determination in the U.S. and internationally.

8 – Grammy-winning Motown artist Bonnie Pointer, who went solo after leaving The Pointer Sisters, dies of cardiac arrest at age 69 in Los Angeles. She is known for her 70s cover of “Heaven Must Have Sent You.” Group hits include “Yes We Can,” “Fire,” “Slow Hand,” and “I’m So Excited.”

25 – St. Louis rapper Lawrence “Huey” Franks Jr. dies in a double shooting in Kinloch, Mo. He was 31. His 2006 single, “Drop, Lock & Pop It” soared up the Billboard charts.

28 – Educator and community leader Theresa E. Bolden, who for 38 years served as a supervisor for women of the Eastern Missouri Jurdisdiction of the Church of God in Christ, dies at age 103 in St. Louis.

July

13 – Diplomat and poet Zindzi Mandela, daughter of the late South African president Nelson Mandela and anti-apartheid leader Winnie Mandela, dies at age 59 in Johannesburg, South Africa. She tested positive for COVID-19 on the day she died.

16 – Ola Mae Spinks, a retired school librarian in Pontiac, Michigan schools who helped to organize the historic “Slave Narratives” in the U.S. Library of Congress, dies at a senior living center in Southfield, Michigan at age 106.

17 – Rev. Cordy Tindell “C. T.” Vivian, Civil Rights hero, lieutenant to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., former national director of affiliates for the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and 2013 Presidential Medal of Freedom honoree by Pres. Barack Obama, dies at age 95 in Atlanta.

17 – Civil Rights hero U.S. Rep. John R. Lewis, dies at age 80 from pancreatic cancer. Lewis, a colleague of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., participated in lunch counter sit-ins, joined the Freedom Riders in challenging segregated buses, marched and fought for voting rights, and was a 23-year old keynote speaker at the 1963 March on Washington.

19 – Presiding Prelate Bishop Alphonso Scott of Lively Stone Church of God Fellowship dies at age 83 in his home in Ferguson.

29 – Malik Abdul “Malik B ” Basit, founding member of The Roots, dies at age 47, no cause of death released.

T’Challa” in Black Panther will not be recast.

29 – Clifford Robinson, the 6’10” UConn Huskies collegiate and an NBA All-Star who played for the Portland Trail Blazers, the Phoenix Suns, the Detroit Pistons and the Golden State Warriors, dies of lymphoma at age 53 at his home in Portland, Oregon.

30 – Iconic Georgetown men’s basketball coach John Thompson dies at his home in Arlington, Virginia. at age 78. In 1984, he became the first Black coach to win the national championship.

September

26 – Mimi Jones, a Civil Rights activist in an historic 1964 St. Augustine Florida swim-in at a segregated pool at the Monson Motor Lodge, dies at age 73 in at her home in Boston. A white hotel operator responed by pouring acid in the pool. She and five others were arrested. The swim-in was seen as one of the actions widely credited with the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1964.

6 – St. Louis Cardinals baseball great, base -stealing Hall of Famer Lou Brock, dies at age 81 in St. Louis. He had multiple illnesses in recent years.

6 – Bruce Williamson, former lead singer of The Temptations, dies of COVID-19 at age 49.

9 – Ronald “Khalis” Bell, singer, songwriter, saxophonist and a founding member of Kool and the Gang, dies at age 68 at his home in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

30 – Former 2012 GOP presidential candidate and former C.E.O. of Godfather’s Pizza, Herman Cain dies of COVID-19 after attending an indoor Donald Trump campaign rally in Tulsa, Oklahoma while not wearing a mask or social distancing.

August

16 – The first African American U.S. postmaster in Godfrey Illinois and in St. Charles, Vitilas “Veto” Reid dies at age 91 in St. Louis.

11 – Actor Raymond G. Allen Sr., best known as tipsy character Uncle Woody from “Sanford and Son,” dies at age 91 in California.

12 – Community health leader and nurse Betty Jean Kerr, of People’s Health Centers, dies at age 82 in St. Louis. The health centers she helped build were renamed in her honor in 2007 after her retirement.

12 – “Want Ads” vocalist Edna Wright, lead singer of the 70s group Honey Cone, dies of a heart attack at age 75.

of the Marvelettes, dies of cardiac arrest at age 78.

18 – Liberal U. S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg dies at age 87 from pancreatic cancer. She was a longtime legal champion of gender equality.

18 – Grammy-winning singer Pamela Hutchison of the Chicago iconic sister soul/R&B trio, The Emotions, dies at age 61 after years of health challenges. Their 1977 song “The Best of My Love,” won a Grammy for Best R&B performance by a duo or group with vocals.

23 – Former NFL Hall of Fame running back Gale Sayers of the Chicago Bears died from Alzheimer’s at age 77 in Wakarusa, Indiana.

October

2 – Legendary former St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Bob Gibson dies at age 84 from pancreatic cancer in Omaha, Nebraska.

November

2 – Broadway actor and singer Lawrence Clayton, who starred in “The Color Purple” and “Dreamgirls,” dies of cancer at age 64.

6 – Public health nurse and administrator Richelle Annette Simmons Clark dies at age 70 in St. Louis.

8 – Longtime Jeopardy! Host Alex Trebek dies of pancreatic cancer at age 80

8 – BET star and “Let’s Stay Together” and “Pitch”actor Bert Balasco, found dead at age 38 in a Virginia hotel room where he was quarantining in preparation for an upcoming moving role.

16 – Master Chef Jr. contestant Ben Watkins, dies at age 14 from a rare cancer.

3 – Tony nominated stage and film actor Thomas Jefferson Byrd is found shot to death at age 70 in Atlanta. Byrd starred in several Spike Lee films, including “He Got Game,” “Get on the Bus” and “Clockers.”

6 – “I Can See Clearly Now” singer-songwriter Johnny Nash dies at age 80 at his home in Houston.

23 – Civil Rights activist and Selma attorney Bruce Boynton, who inspired the Freedom Rides, dies of cancer at age 83 in Montgomery, Alabama.

10 – Lucille Bridges, the mother who made the historic walk with her 6-year-old daughter Ruby Bridges into a segregated New Orleans public school, which is memorialized in a Norman Rockwell painting, dies at age 86 in New Orleans.

24 – New York City’s first Black Mayor David Dinkins dies of natural causes at age 93 at his home in NYC.

December

2 – 1960 Olympic decathon champion Rafer Johnson dies at age 86 at his home in Sherman Oaks, California.

7 – Film and television actress Natalie Deselle-Reid dies at age 53 of colon cancer. She was known for her roles in “B*A*P*S,” “Madea’s Big Happy Family,” “Set It Off” and the sitcom “Eve.”

21 – St. Louis singer Lamont Hadley Sr. dies from COVID19 at age 53. Hadley was best known as a member of the group Master’s Touch.

28 – “Black Panther”star Chadwick Boseman dies at age 43, following a four-year private battle with colon cancer. His other movies include “21 Bridges,” “Marshall,” “Da 5 Bloods,” and “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom.” Marvel Studios later announced his role as “King

15 – Retired Anheuser -Busch executive, attorney, Civil Rights activist and St. Louis Alderman, Wayman F. Smith III, dies at age 80 in St. Louis.

18 – William H. Danforth, M.D., chancellor emeritus and trustee emeritus of Washington University, dies at age 94 at his home in Ladue, Mo.

18 – Georgia Dobbins, cowriter of “Please Mr. Postman,” Motown’s first No. 1 hit as part

12 – St. Louis soulful singer and entertainer Kim Massie dies at age 62, after a number of health issues. Her voice filled blues clubs and area concert venues for decades.

31 – Grammy-nominated Gospel music legend and minister, Bishop Rance Allen dies at age 71.He is known for the hit, “Something About the Name Jesus,” and with gospel group with his brothers, The Rance Allen Group.

31 – “James Bond” actor Sean Connery dies at age 90 from heart failure due to pneumonia and old age at his home in the Bahamas.

12 – Country superstar Charley Pride, the first African American member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, dies at age 86 from COVID-19.

12 – Actress Carol Sutton, featured in “Queen Sugar” and “Steel Magnolias,” dies at age 76 from COVID-19.

11 – Tommy “Tiny” Lister, who played “Deebo” in the “Friday” movies, dies at age 62. After having COVID-19 a few months ago, his family said Lister had been experiencing COVID symptoms again in the days before his death.

“Huey” Franks

Lou Brock

Chadwick Boseman

Theresa Bolden

Kim Massie

St. Louis Children’s Hospital: Raising St. Louis

BUILDING HEALTHIER COMMUNITIES IN CHALLENGING TIMES

St. Louis Children’s Hospital’s Child Health Advocacy and Outreach programs are offering services during COVID-19 to ensure we do what’s right for children and their families every day. The hospital is not only a world-class choice for parents looking to deliver or heal their sick babies, it invests in children’s lives away from the hospital. The Raising St. Louis program is one of the ways in which the hospital extends its reach into the community, with nearly 200 families currently enrolled.

Raising St. Louis is here for families during the pandemic. It connects with mothers, fathers and other family members to help build and sustain the family unit, reduces the high infant mortality rate, promotes literacy and increases access to health care. Families receive resources to help navigate the new way of living during COVID-19.

Any woman or family who lives within an identified 22 zip code area in St. Louis City and North County and is pregnant, or has a child up to age 4, is eligible to participate, at zero cost to the participant. To stay connected, services are provided virtually through Zoom and Facebook Live events.

To learn more about how Raising St. Louis can help your child get the best start to a healthy and full life, visit our website at StLouisChildrens.org and the Raising St. Louis Facebook page. Families can enroll in Raising St. Louis by calling 314.747.RSTL or 314.362.9586

Child Health Advocacy and Outreach programs are made possible by generous donations to St. Louis Children’s Hospital Foundation.

CS_581970_12/20

St. LouiS AmericAn

Ethics Committee says Rep. Price lied during investigation

By Dana Rieck

Of The St. Louis American

Rep. Wiley Price IV is facing censure in the Missouri House of Representatives based on recommendations from the 10-person Committee on Ethics after an investigation determined he coerced his former legislative assistant and committed perjury during an investigation into allegations he had sex with a House intern in January. The Ethics Committee last week released an eight-page report detailing the investigation. The report says Price coerced his former legislative assistant into changing her story, and that he lied about claiming to have had sex with a House intern.

Price represents the 84th District, which covers a

majority of the west side of St. Louis, including Forest Park, the Clayton and Hamilton Heights neighborhoods and a portion of the Wells-Goodfellows neighborhood. He won his second two-year term Nov. 3.

Price declined an interview for this story. Speaker of the House Rob Vescovo could not be reached for comment.

The investigation

The investigation began Jan. 27 when Price’s thenlegislative assistant reported to the House that Price told her he had sex with a House intern the night before. According to policy, outside counsel was contracted to conduct an

St. Louis County restaurant restrictions revisited

By Sandra Jordan Of The St. Louis American

informal working group of restaurant advisors on Tuesday, Dec. 22, on “a plan to reopen some form of indoor dining in restaurants and other food establishments.”

In a statement, the County said the plan is not final but “several ideas for new protocols proposed by group members will be included.” “We expect their work to be completed

Bush joins House Judiciary Committee

She is one of 11 members who is not a lawyer

By Dana Rieck

Congresswoman-elect Cori Bush may have just been elected to the House and appointed to the House Committee on the Judiciary, but don’t be fooled: she’s not taking her activist hat off any time soon. The committee appointment was announced Friday, Dec. 18, by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and has been a long-time goal of Bush’s. She said it’s something she’s aspired to since she first ran for office in 2016.

“I always said that the Judiciary Committee was where I wanted to be because I wanted to be able to address policing and so many other things that have affected St. Louis for such a long time,” she said in an interview with The American. “So when I ran this time, of course, that was front of mind.” Bush says people told her not to expect to be appointed to the committee, given that the majority of its members are attorneys. And so while she’ll be a part of the racial minority in the 43-member committee, she’ll also hold another minority status as one of the 11 members who is not a lawyer. The 10 other representatives on the committee

Misha Marshall sends up a prayer for her family, friends and neighbors

By Leyla Fern King For The St. Louis American

Second of two parts

This story was produced in partnership with the Pulitzer Center as part of the 63106 Project, a St. Louis-based non-profit racial equity storytelling project. Luck and faith play a huge role in Misha Marshall’s

this week, and if the number of weekly cases of COVID-19 remain stable, I intend to announce details of a limited reopening plan, a week from today,” St. Louis County Executive Dr. Sam Page said at his Wednesday morning media briefing. Page attributed a drop in new COVID-

Chace Fields, 6, asks Santa for a Harry Potter lego set and a bike for Christmas as he prepares to have his photo with Santa at the Galleria Mall on Saturday.

Photo by Lawrence Bryant

Santa visits Galleria

Wiley Price IV

Cori Bush

Misha Marshall

It’s splitsville for Tyler Perry and longtime girlfriend

Billionaire entertainment mogul Tyler Perry told PEOPLE that he is celebrating the holidays as newly single, following a break up from longtime girlfriend Gelila Bekele “I’m 51, single and wondering what the next chapter in my life will look like,” the entertainment mogul said last week on IG. Reportedly the split was amicable and the two remain close friends.

“Whatever it looks like I’m going to walk with God, be the best father and man I can be, hold my head up high, and try to look my best doing it!!” Perry added on IG. “In a world with so much sadness, please try and stay in the good! Merry Christmas and let’s look forward to 2021 bringing us peace!”

Vanessa Bryant says own mother is suing to get money

PEOPLE reports that Vanessa Bryant, widow of the late NBA Lakers great Kobe Bryant’s widow, is taking aim at her daughter’s finances. Court documents recently obtained by PEOPLE, show Sofia Laine, 68, is suing her daughter Vanessa, 38, for financial support, claiming she worked unpaid as a “longtime personal assistant and nanny” for the Bryant family, adding that before Kobe’s untimely death on Jan. 26, 2020 in a helicopter crash at age 41 that also claimed the life of 13-year-old daughter Gianna and seven others, he had promised to take care of his mother-in-law for the rest of her life. After supporting her mother for nearly 20

years, in a statement to PEOPLE, Vanessa Bryant claims her mother is “continuing to try and find ways to extort a financial windfall from our family.” She said her mother was never her personal assistant or a nanny to their children. “I have always been a stay-at-home mother, and my husband and I were our daughters’ full-time caregivers,” she said.

Uncle Luke proves COVID is 2 Live for any crew

went away… and then the fevers came…101, 102 at night.” Campbell says he still wakes up in the middle of the night soaking wet from night sweats, and he lost about 20 pounds in the ordeal.

Actors Keshia Knight Pulliam and Brad James are engaged

2 Live Crew’s Luther Campbell says COVID is real and it’s bad. Although he can’t say for certain exactly where he contracted the virus, against his own judgement, the legendary rapper said he gave into pressure to attend a friend’s party where social distancing and masks apparently were not invited. Campbell described it as the worst week of his life. “I went to my homeboy’s birthday party at a strip club,” Campbell said. “I went in there, I had a mask on, and everybody was in my face.”

In an Instagram video, posted by unclelukereal1, he said, “I started out in denial, thought it was allergies… I went from that to thinking I had a stomach virus, then my taste

One of TV’s favorite little Huxtables, Rudy from “The Cosby Show,” Keshia Knight Pulliam is tying the knot with Brad James, after the pair got engaged recently in Atlanta. PEOPLE reports Pulliam and James started dating year after the pair met on the set of the TV movie “Pride and Prejudice: Atlanta.” “Honestly, we just hit it off,” Pulliam said about first meeting James. James is best known roles in Tyler Perry’s sitcom “For Better or For Worse,” Netflix’s “Outer Banks” and on the black streaming service UMC series “A House Divided.” Knight Pulliam and James have both been married before.

Sources: Instagram, Miami Herald, PEOPLE, Smart News

Vanessa Bryant

Gelila Bekele

Report finds St. Louis police lack cohesion, officers have adopted ‘fire-fighting’ mentality

By Dana Rieck

Of The St. Louis American

A 42-page report on the status of the St. Louis metro and county police departments consistently reiterated its employees think the agencies lack cohesion and unity — which has led to, in part, a firefighting mentality “in which they respond reactively to all calls for service in the absence of a clearly-articulated organizational plan.”

Mayor Lyda Krewson, Public Safety Director Jimmie Edwards and Police Chief John Hayden announced the results of the six-month, outside review of the police departments July 1; it was released publicly Monday.

St. Louis Regional Business Council and the companies of Civic Progress, a coalition of local businesses that work to improve the St. Louis region, funded the study.

The study makes recommendations tailored to address the city’s crime rates, critical recruitment problem and complex public safety governance. Hayden declined to be interviewed about the report’s findings. Krewson also declined an interview. Her media spokesperson Jacob Long said Krewson had not finished reading the report. Edwards did not return a call for comment.

Teneo Risk conducted the study. The firm provides risk consulting and risk advisory services to a wide range of clients.

The study began by outlining the history of the police department and the city’s struggle

with violent crime. The study noted St. Louis has witnessed significant increases in murder and aggravated assaults with a gun in recent years, and the department’s solve rate is less than 25%, compared to the national average of 60%.

The report stated that as of Dec. 6, St. Louis had experienced 247 murders in 2020 — a rate 17% higher than the city’s most violent year, which was 1993.

The report also noted two significant advancements: the implementation of bodyworn cameras in November and the implementation of the SwiftProtect records management system, which should be completed in 2021.

The study’s authors conducted interviews with major St. Louis-area businesses, government, law enforcement and community leaders.

They wrote that officers expressed a perceived lack of cohesion at the executive level, creating ambiguity or uncertainty around who is leading the law enforcement effort during events such as protests and who is calling the shots when it comes to using military weapons, ammunition and equipment during those demonstrations.

This lack of cohesion and lack of an organized plan to reduce crime, the report stated, has led to officers finding themselves in a constant “firefighting” mode, meaning they are reactively responding to all calls for service instead of having a unified approach aimed at reducing crime rates. This leads to officer burnout and persistent rates of crime and disorder.

Furthermore, the study noted the coronavirus pandemic has further challenged the effectiveness of the department’s ability

to fight crime, citing that while overall crime in the city was down about 1% from January to September 2020, violent crimes against people, including homicide, rape, robbery and assault were up 90% in the downtown area, compared with the same time period last year.

The Ethical Society of Police released a statement in part asserting the study failed to adequately address systemic racism, a culture of violence in SLMPD and diversity. They also called out county officials for attempting to withhold demographic information relative to employment, discipline, and promotion and assert they tried to have the Teneo review team sign a non-disclosure agreement.

“One has to question the motives in that. How committed can St. Louis County be to address the issues when an

extraordinary effort was made not to provide the information,”

The Society wrote in a statement.

While there are pages of recommendations regarding things like resource allocation, crime control, technology use and communication, there were three main areas for improvement that the study outlined, listed below as they appear in the report:

1. The department should consider reorganization of personnel, bureaus and specialized units to maximize efficiencies leverag-

ing existing resources.

2. The department should create and implement a more data-driven, community-focused, long-term crime fighting strategy.

3. The department should empower the chief to select senior personnel, predicated upon the needs of the department, and to develop a forward-looking strategic plan for the organization.

The full report may be found online at bit.ly/34zRVtV.

The

The

“Restrictions stay put as first

begins shipping across country,” in the Dec. 17, edition should have stated that the ban on indoor dining has been extended for at least another two weeks. It is the relaxation of restrictions on signs, outdoor dining spaces and temporary structures that is extended through April.

A front page photo in the Dec. 17 edition showing Vicki Hodges receivinga coronavirus vaccine last week was incorrectly credited. The photographer was Bill Greenblatt/UPI.

Clarification: In the Dec. 17 edition Sharee Silerio, director of the documentary film “Black Girl, Bleu,” said she confided in a close friend, not her family members, who was insensitive to her when she expressed concerns about her own depression.

Now is the time to remember the true reason for the season

“The resurrection is a political event. The politics of the resurrection is found in its gift of freedom to the poor and the helpless. Being granted freedom while they are still poor, they can know that their poverty is a contrived phenomenon, traceable to the rich and the powerful in this world. This new knowledge … requires that the poor practice political activity against the social and economic structure that makes them poor.” — James H. Cone, God of the Oppressed, 1975 This year, Christmas for many of those who celebrate will not look like what it used to. It will be lonelier, perhaps, or filled with the anxiety of tenuous employment and uncertain futures. But in such times, we are given a moment to reflect on what the holiday means. In the spirit of the anniversary of Jesus’ birth, we have a special obligation to remember his mission to feed the hungry and heal the sick. He taught hiis followers to serve others — to

serve the poor, the destitute, the sex worker, the one suffering disease.

The United States, like the Roman Empire of Biblical times, is a land of plenty, but a land of plenty in which our riches are only accessible to some, while others are left to wander, asking for room at an inn.

A deepening poignancy and irony centers on the plight of the growing numbers of homeless and hungry, especially during this coronavirus pandemic. Mary and Joseph, too, were homeless — sort of. We can see the mother of God in the faces of the women and men evicted this year without any income to pay for their housing.

Many conservative Americans — and self-professed liberals, too — claim to be children of God, but offer disdain and ridicule for the poor and powerless in our society. We have seen this in Congress this week as our well-

paid rulers quibble over whether we are worth $600 stimulus checks.

Meanwhile, their constituents are dying — in numbers higher than the death toll of 9/11, every single day. This nation enacts religious devotion to the values of profit and of violence, all while claiming to do so in the name of Jesus.

American conservatives, and liberals alike, often see themselves as being in a battle against the secular, anti-religious views of the political left, while ignoring the Bible’s message of charity and love toward one’s fellow man.

Of all the seasons, Christmas compels all of us to reach out to the less-fortunate with tangible help, not just pious expressions of sympathy.

“What the Lord requires of you,” wrote the prophet Micah, is “ to act justly, to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”

As I See It - A Forum for Community Issues

The death penalty is racially biased, hypocritical and inhumane

By Wesley Bell

For The St. Louis American

Missouri made the Death Penalty Information Center’s 2020 annual report, and not in a good way. Missouri was one of five states — along with Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee and Texas — that performed executions in 2020. Missouri also was the first state to execute someone during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The total number of executions in the U.S. this year is 17, as of this writing; though, at the rate President Donald Trump is going, that number could increase and even balloon before the new year. Seventeen is down from 22 in 2019, and this was the lowest number of executions performed in the U.S. since 1991. Despite Missouri’s execution of Walter Barton on May 19, this year also saw the lowest number of executions performed at the state level since 1983. The Death Penalty Information Center does a great service in reminding us of the judicial killings done in our name. I can promise them and you that I will never add to these grim statistics. I campaigned for St. Louis County prosecuting attorney in 2018 with the explicit pledge that I will never seek the death penalty, and I renew that pledge today.

The Missouri Association of Prosecuting Attorneys cited deterrence as a key justification for the death penalty in a 2011 position paper. However, a 2001 U.S. Department of Justice report found that the average

murder rate per 100,00 people in 1999 among death penalty states was 5.5 and the average murder rate among non-death penalty states was 3.6. That sounds like anything but deterrence. A 1999 report in “Crime and Delinquency” on executions in Texas between 1984 and 1997 found that the murder rate was stable, with no evidence of a deterrent effect based on the number of executions. The death penalty also is racially biased. This year, according to the Death Penalty Information Center, almost half of the defendants executed were people of color and 76% of the executions were for the deaths of White victims. Black folks are more likely to be executed than White folks, and those (of any race) who kill White people are more likely to be executed than those (of any race) who kill Black people. Anyone familiar with these facts who still advocates for the death penalty must implicitly accept that Black lives matter less than White lives. That is not a position that is consistent with the U.S. Constitution that prosecutors swear to uphold.

Finally, these cases are especially hard on the families of victims. Death-sentenced prisoners spend on average more

The time is now for action on crime

The Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis has been on the front lines of the coronavirus pandemic, working to ensure the communities hardest hit by this deadly virus have some relief.

Guest Columnist

Michael McMillian

We have provided more than $3.75 million in food to over 85,000 families and distributed more than 300,000 masks, gloves, sanitizer and other protective gear to help stem the virus’ spread.

But there is another crisis in St. Louis that also presents a very clear and present danger to our community — crime, more specifically the alarming homicide rate.

As I write there have been 249 homicides in St. Louis this year, representing the highest number of deaths since the mid 1990s.

For some context, last year St. Louis had 194 homicides. The higher number for this year represents a 28% increase this year. And we still have a week left in the year.

To provide even more context, the highest total number of homicides we’ve ever recorded in a single year was 267 in 1993 … and we had 65,000 more people living in St. Louisthen.

Our homicide rate is one of the highest in the country and we are consistently placed

on the list of Most Dangerous Cities in America. In late November, a study ranked St. Louis as the second least safe city in America. Our mission at the Urban League is to empower African Americans and others throughout the region in securing economic self-reliance, social equality and civil rights.

n For some context, last year St. Louis had 194 homicides. The higher number for this year represents a 28% increase this year.

We envision a region where all people can live in neighborhoods that are vibrant and thriving. But that vision, and all of the work the Urban League and others undertake to improve our region, is undermined by a spiraling crime rate.

The 110,000 people we serve each year with employment, utility assistance, financial coaching, food, and other support services, remain at risk despite our best efforts. This is unacceptable and left unchecked it will lead to continued decline and disinvestment, causing even more poverty and inequity. This year, The Urban League doubled down on our efforts

Letters to the editor

Congress needs to pass COVID-19 relief bill now

As vaccinations roll out, coronavirus cases are also still on the rise throughout our city. People are still struggling with paying rent and finding food as the virus rages on.

than 10 years before execution or exoneration, and some prisoners spend more than 20 years on death row.

That is a terribly long time to wait for the closure delivered instantly with the sentence of life in prison without eligibility of parole. Also, given the gravity of the death sentence, these cases are more likely to be overturned on appeal than cases with a lesser sentence, forcing the state — and the grieving family — to start all over.

There is no stronger argument against the death penalty, however, than that our government sometimes kills innocent people in our name. According to the Death Penalty Information Center, five people were exonerated from death row in the U.S. in 2020, bringing the number of people exonerated from death row to 172 since 1973.

Those are 172 lives saved from unjust death at our hands. We will never know how many people killed by our government in our name were innocent of the crimes for which they were executed.

We have the power, as prosecutors, to end this ineffective, racially biased, hypocritical and inhumane practice. I do not believe in killing anyone nor asking anyone (including the state) to do so for me. I call upon all prosecutors in Missouri who currently consider the death penalty an option to stop. Premeditated murder, no matter who commits it, is wrong. Wesley Bell is St. Louis County prosecuting attorney.

In fact, the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities found that an estimated 12.4 million adult renters (1 in 6) reported that they were not caught up on rent.

We cannot afford to have millions of hard-working, honest, Americans put out on the streets in the middle of winter in the middle of this pandemic. Congress should act right now to pass a COVID relief bill that includes at least $25 billion in rent relief and a 15 percent boost in the maximum SNAP benefit to put safeguards in place to prevent a mass homeless population from happening.

Sarah Miller University City

Organize, register, vote

Let us not forget that it was Republicans who worked to suppress the vote in 2020, particularly affecting Black and other minority voters.

Let us also not forget that it was Republicans who worked to erase legally-cast votes of millions of Americans, particularly Black and other minority voters in many of the battleground jurisdictions in question.

It was Republicans who supported Trump’s many efforts to persuade state legislators, state judges and federal judges all the way to the Supreme Court to disregard millions of Americans’ votes -- without a shred of evidence but only wild accusations of fraud.

Shamefully, Missouri’s Republican Attorney General

to change lives and empower communities by launching the Division of Public Safety and Community Response, headed by James Clark. In just a few months, the Division has worked to de-escalate several disputes that had a trajectory towards violence, engaged more than 2,100 households with information on human service programs, implemented the Cure Violence model in Walnut Park, supported the JVL, Hyde Park, and Kingsway East neighborhoods with trauma counseling, substance abuse support, employment opportunities and more.

We recognize the challenges facing law enforcement and appreciate the very real concerns raised about policing in communities of color. Police reform and accountability is a non-negotiable. wWe cannot continue old strategies that are proven to be deadly in our community.

To that end, we welcome critical reviews of our local police departments by public and private entities — especially those with public input but it is clear that we cannot rely on law enforcement alone to manage crime and address criminal behavior. We all have a role to play. The Urban League is as committed today to creating a better St. Louis as we were 102 years ago. We all must recognize the urgency of now and commit full on to fighting crime in the same manner we are fighting COVID-19. We really are all in this together.

All letters are edited for length and style.

Schmitt joined this anti-democratic, anti-voter cause. So did 2nd District Congresswoman Ann Wagner. She and more than 120 other Republican House members signed on to this last-gasp Trump move to hang onto power that voters denied him — by more than 7 million legal votes.

Did Missouri’s two Republican Senators Blunt and Hawley call out Trump’s antidemocratic, indeed, anti-American effort to deny the vote to millions? Are you kidding, no. Republicans have tried to suppress the vote, particularly, the Black vote for decades. Now, they have gone beyond voter suppression to actually try to erase legally-cast votes. It is one more reason to organize, register more voters and rightfully earn the political power that Republicans would deny us.

Arthur Hoffman St. Louis

Guest Columnist

Local youth clubs unite to serve more children

For The St. Louis American

Boys & Girls Clubs, Mathews-Dickey Boys’ & Girls’ Club have served community for more than 113 years port.” Flint Fowler, president of BGCSTL, said, “There is a quote by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. that seems especially fitting as we embark on this new journey together: ‘We are not makers of history. We are made by history.’

The Mathews-Dickey Boys’ & Girls’ Club will be joining the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis, effective Jan. 1. The Boards of Directors and staffs of both MathewsDickey Boys’ & Girls’ Club and Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis care deeply about the future of the children in the St. Louis area, and have been exploring ways to collaborate to serve more youth for years. Collectively, both Clubs have served millions of children in the region for more than 113 years.

Over the past few years, Mathews-Dickey Boys’ & Girls’ Club board and staff have taken steps to build upon the foundation established by Martin Luther Mathews and Hubert “Dickey” Ballentine. These steps have included exploring partnerships with other non-profit organizations. All parties agreed that a partnership would strengthen the organizations, influence the lives of more children and families, and provide more youth access to low-cost, life changing programs and services.

Martin Mathews is the founder and president emeritus of theMathews-Dickey Boys’ & Girls’ Club. He said of the partnership, “Mathews-Dickey Boys’ & Girls’ Club has been an important part of the St. Louis community for 60 years, and our biggest contribution to this community are the children we have served.

“They are our biggest asset and I know that Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis shares our commitment to children and their development. Both Clubs are committed to a future that focuses on our children that I strongly sup-

“What will ultimately make us successful is the great history that is the foundation of our organizations and that combined will make us a force for change and good,” Fowler said.

The agreement preserves the Mathews-Dickey Boys’ & Girls’ Club name, location and nationally recognized youth sports programs. Joining forces and using the strengths of both Mathews-Dickey Boys’ & Girls’ Club and BGCSTL honors and affirms their legacies.

An integration committee will continue to work to finalize all aspects of the new enterprise. In the short term, Club operations will continue as they always have. In the long term, key programs and activities will be enhanced, new programs will be explored, and new data measurement practices will be deployed to ensure positive outcomes in priority areas that include academic success, good character and citizenship, sports and athletics and healthy lifestyles.

In late October, BGCSTL announced it had merged with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Bethalto, which has two locations in Illinois.

The combined organization will now be one of the region’s largest youth development agencies serving more than 10,800 kids and teens annually. In addition, the expanded organization will produce better outcomes for all members, extend opportunities for staff professional growth and development and boost fundraising.

The hypocrisy of Law and Politics

By Jamala Rogers For The St. Louis American

The response to news of Circuit Judge Thomas Clark II’s ruling was swift. Social media was a-blaze. The ruling to disqualify St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner from prosecuting the case of the gun-waving McCloskeys smacks of racism, white privilege and sexism. The re-election of Clark was targeted in 2018 by St. Louis activists. The campaign was not successful in unseating him but it took a sizable bite out of his votes that year: Clark received 55% of the vote compared to 65% in 2016.

Clark’s judgment in the case against Mark McCloskey harped on the “compelling and constitutionally sacred” right to a fair trial. Yet there are defendants and attorneys who believed their right to a fair trial was compromised with Clark on the bench. This judge is no beacon for real justice.

Technically, the federal judge’s ruling only applies to Mark McCloskey, one half of the now-famous duo. But any attorney worth their salt will use it as precedent for getting the same judgment for their client. That client would be Mark’s spouse, Patricia McCloskey.

Clark’s order doesn’t apply to Patricia McCloskey, but her attorney has also motioned to prevent a Black prosecutor from trying her case.

The judge in her case is Michael Steltzer. He’s a circuit judge who was targeted for un-election because he also has a track record similar to Clark’s. I hope you see the tangled web they weave.

The McCloskeys are wealthy, white attorneys. I know of no Black or poor people who have been able to get the prosecutor of their choice for their case.

I know plenty who filed legitimate motions to get a biased judge off their case or to get a change in venue or to get the bail reduced. Denied. Denied. Denied.

The McCloskeys this summer threatened non-violent protesters who were on their way to the home of St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson. The McCloskey’s self-made drama created political theater that catapulted them into the bright lights at the Republican National Convention. Talk about actions for political purposes!

Republican Sen. Josh Hawley jumped in with his unwavering support, urging Attorney General William Barr to sanction Gardner. Twelve U.S. representatives signed a letter to Barr urging him to use his powers to smack down a local prosecutor doing her job.

All 12 reps are white and male except for one white female. In trumpian-style Missouri Gov. Mike Parsons offered a pardon before the couple was even charged.

All of these actions were politically motivated — as have been most of the attacks on St. Louis’ first African American prosecutor. Their racist rhetoric has been used to whip up the Republic base. The results have been continued death threats against Gardner and sabotage of her office’s authority.

The double standards of decency and justice are continually exposed in our legal and political systems. Under the current Republican regimes, it has been a downright racist mockery.

Those of us who recognize the political sickness infecting our democracy will continue to fight for laws that protect the people and for the public servants who protect those laws.

Jamala Rogers

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis (right) will be joining the Mathews-Dickey Boys’ & Girls’ Club, effective Jan. 1, 2021.

Marshall

Continued from A1

The pandemic took a toll on her children, too. Her 18-yearold daughter, Maleah, a senior and track star at Carnahan High School of the Future, had her eye on continuing her studies and athletic career at Tennessee State University. That’s the historically Black university that sent legendary track stars Wilma Rudolph, Wyomia Tyus and Ralph Boston to the Olympics. But when the pandemic came along, Maleah saw her track season at Carnahan canceled. Then she decided, in an abundance of caution, to defer her track dream at TSU, and enroll in a dental program at St. Louis Community College.

Misha’s 21-year-old son, Jacobi, had a steady job at a mid-town hotel. But when the pandemic crushed tourism here, he was laid off.

With all of that misfortune, Misha and her children focus on counting their blessings. They have stayed happy, healthy and together, sharing a home in the Columbus Square neighborhood with Misha’s parents, John and Cathy Marshall, and Misha’s sister, Maya.

Columbus Square is in zip code 63106, which, in recent years, has not enjoyed many blessings. Researchers at Washington and St. Louis universities, in a widely cited study, have identified 63106 as the region’s most vulnerable when it comes to the social determinants of health.

Average life expectancy in 63106 was pegged at 67 years old in the study, compared to 85 in 63105, which is in suburban Clayton.

The Marshall family’s story is part of the 63106 Project, organized by Before Ferguson Beyond Ferguson, a nonprofit, racial equity storytelling collaborative that provides stories to St. Louis media about the region’s most vulnerable residents in the time of the pandemic.

Eight families in 63106 have participated in the project to date. As part of this effort, The St. Louis American is following the Marshall family through the pandemic, providing new chapters for The St. Louis American as circumstances dictate through 2021.

Misha Marshall credits the blessings her family enjoys to her parents’ deep and abiding Christian faith, which they passed on to their children and grandchildren.

John Marshall has served

as a deacon at Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church, 1444 South Compton Avenue, and Cathy Marshall has been involved in the church’s many ministries.

“I did all kinds of youth drama ministries and whatever ministry they had in church,”

Misha Marshall said.

“I’m just a person who loves God, knows that there is a God, I pray to my God, the God that I serve.” She is now a member of Friendly Temple Missionary Baptist Church, at 5515 Martin Luther King Drive.

Just as Misha’s parents taught her the importance of kindness and family, Misha does the same for her children. Maleah and Jacobi have been helping around the house from an early age. When they were tots, they began helping their mother in caring for their aunt Maya, who has cerebral palsy.

Each time they saw Misha head towards Maya’s room, they knew it was time to provide her with some TLC.

Over time, the two kids

learned to grab wipes and other supplies to help keep their aunt clean. As children, they viewed pushing Maya in her wheelchair as a fun game. Today it is a normal and welcome part of their day.

“They know that she has to be fed and dressed and groomed and all these things that you’re supposed to do, with a person that is of diminished capacity,” Misha says. “So it’s not something that is out of the norm for them.”

an especially difficult time. She was not in her normal optimistic mood and had accidentally left her phone at home.

n

“I’m just a person who loves God, knows that there is a God, I pray to my God, the God that I serve.”

— Misha Marshall

Apart from taking care of their Aunt Maya, Maleah and Jacobi help Misha in other ways around the house. If the kids notice that Misha looks more tired than usual, they make sure she does not have too much work to do around the house.

One day in particular, Jacobi noticed that Misha was having

Knowing that not having her phone would make Misha’s bad day even worse, Jacobi took an Uber to Misha’s workplace to surprise her with the phone. As he handed his mom the phone, he left her with words of affirmation: “Mom, everything’s going to be okay. You have to remember to have hope or be hopeful.”

Trying always to stay positive, Misha tries not to think too much about the crime in her neighborhood.

The 63106 zip code incorporates several St. Louis neighborhoods, including Columbus Square, Jeff-VanderLou, Old North and Carr

Square.

According to data from the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department up to October 2020, these neighborhoods had reported 24 homicides, nine rapes, 108 robberies, and 306 aggravated assaults for the year. The homicide rate is 200 homicides per 100,000 people for 2020. By comparison in 2018, the city of St. Louis overall reported 60.9 homicides per 100,000 people.

St. Louis police crime data also shows aggravated assaults in 63106 have increased 30 percent in the period since the outbreak of COVID-19.

Still, Misha says her family feels safe in their immediate neighborhood, though she stays alert. “I’m aware of my surroundings,” she says. “Am I gonna just be riding around with my windows down and my car unlocked at 2 o’clock in the morning? Absolutely not.”

Misha continues to stay optimistic. She said the

pandemic has “taught people to love more. It’s taught people to be more accountable, be present. Because the person that you’re talking to might be here today, but they might not be here the next day.”

The pandemic also brought Misha’s immediate family closer with their extended family.

In August, Misha celebrated Maya’s birthday with the help of her kids, parents, and her older sister and her family. Because of the struggle it takes to place Maya in her wheelchair, she does not often get the chance to spend time outside. The celebration and opportunity for Maya to enjoy fresh air meant a lot to everyone in the family. Through it all, Misha continues to pray for her family, for her neighbors, and for her patients.

In a recent prayer with the writer of this article, she began:

“Father God, in the name of Jesus, we just thank you for today. Thank you for this day that neither of us nor anyone on this Earth has seen before, God. We are grateful for Miss Leyla King, who has been given this opportunity to speak to me and see something in me that I may not see in myself. May you let her help others, in some form or capacity, through the work that she is doing …”

“God, bless the people of our city, of our state, of our nation, of this world that have dealt with the loss of a loved one, that have dealt with the pandemic, being a victim of it and surviving or not surviving from it. Lord, we just ask that you continue to keep all of us, keep us in your perfect peace, as you have done and as you continue to do ...

“God, I just ask that you continue to keep me strong, continue to keep me in a way that I am able to serve others, whether it be through my job or on a personal level.

“God, there are so many things that you do that go unspoken. Lord, You know my heart, and I just thank you everyday for everything. God, we ask all these things and more, in your son Jesus’ name.

“Amen.”

Leyla Fern King is one of several storytellers for Before Ferguson Beyond Ferguson, a non-profit racial equity storytelling project. She is a senior at John Burroughs School, and an alumna of Cultural Leadership, a St. Louis-based program that brings together Jewish and African American students to learn about and address systems of oppression through the study of African American and Jewish history.

Misha Marshall’s sister, Maya, at her 36th birthday celebration.

Misha Marshall’s sister Maya has cerebral palsy, but she was able to celebrate her birthday with the help of Misha, right, and her children, Maleah and Jacobi.

Restrictions

Continued from A1

positive cases to adherence to “Safer at Home” orders that haven been in place since Nov. 17 when the County has had more than 800 new cases of COVID-19 a day.

“Today we are just over 500 cases a day, and we attribute that drop in cases to good compliance in the community with health protocols,” Page said. “Both the CDC and the White House Task Force consider anything above about 145 new cases per day to be very high risk for a jurisdiction of our size, and we are at three times that number right now.”

Regarding vaccine development, Moderna’s twodose vaccine is the second vaccine to receive Emergency Use Authorization by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Inoculations began this week for residents and staff at nursing homes and elder care facilities.

Neighboring St. Charles County received its first doses of the Moderna vaccine from the state on Dec. 22 for direct patient-facing health care workers and individuals who

Price

Continued from A1

investigation, the report of which was given to the Committee on Ethics.

The legislative assistant testified to the Ethics Committee on Feb. 27, that Price came into his office, shut the door and told her he had sex with the intern the night before. The report does not name the assistant.

She also testified that after reporting this to the House, Price told her she had messed up by telling another representative and told her to recant what she had said to that person and then to support what he was saying — that he “didn’t do anything and it was all wrong,” according to the report.

The woman also testified that Price said to her: “Where I come from, people die for doing shit like this.”

On Feb. 17, the legislative assistant was reassigned to no longer work for Price. To prevent further harassment, the report stated, Price’s office was moved to a different building.

A second witness, the representative for whom the legislative assistant also worked and who she had talked to about what Price told her, also testified on Feb. 27 and gave information that was consistent with what Price’s legislative assistant said in her testimony, and noted that they

Bush

Continued from A1

who have not earned law degrees are: KarenBass, D-CA; Pramila Jayapal, D-WA; Val Butler Demings, D-FL; Lucy McBeth, C-GA; Debbie Mucarsel-Powell, D-FL; Veronica Escobar, D-Texas; Doug Collins, R-GA; Tom McClintock, R-CA; Debbi Lesko, R-CA; and Tom Tiffany, R-WI.

Two other freshman representatives were appointed to the House Committee on the Judiciary alongside Bush: Congressman-elect Mondaire Jones, D-NY, and Congresswoman-elect Deborah Ross, D-N.C. In order to be appointed to any committee, U.S. representatives write a letter to Pelosi indicating what committee they would like to be appointed to and why. The appointments are then voted on by the House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee.

Bush said she believes her House colleagues know her voice should be represented in this committee, regardless of her more liberal views, because she’s had such a different lived experience.

“Out of all the Congress members, I’m the one that is

live or work in long-term care facilities, as recommended by state and federal health authorities.

St. Charles County Department of Public Health Director Demetrius CianciChapman said in a news release, “We have been preparing for this distribution since the early days of the pandemic and are ready to deliver the vaccine to protect members of our community.”

For individuals who are willing to get a COVID19 vaccine, this may be the beginning of efforts to end

are both mandated reporters, the report said.

Both witnesses also testified that this was not the first time Price had disclosed to them information about his sexual partners, according to the Committee’s report. The intern in question declined to cooperate with the committee’s investigation. The intern was assigned to an uninvolved representative, according to the report.

The report states that the Ethics Commission subpoenaed phone records that showed seven phone calls and 26 messages exchanged between Price and the intern between 12:40 a.m. Jan. 23 and the evening of Jan. 26. Their last call was 42 minutes long.

Approximately seven months later, on Sept. 15, Price testified in front of the Ethics Committee, the report said.

Price said during his sworn testimony that he did not have sex with the intern and denied that he had said that to his legislative assistant.

During his testimony he also denied that he had any phone contact with the intern, until he was shown the phone records the Committee had obtained. At that point, the report stated, he said he contacted the intern to confirm his legislative assistant made it home safely after the three of them had attended a party at a restaurant.

Price also testified that he had given his legislative

from the Ferguson movement and have continued to do that work, the work to save lives, a work to help build,” she said.

The House Committee on the Judiciary is charged with protecting Constitutional freedoms and civil liberties, oversight of the U.S. Departments of Justice and Homeland Security, legal and regulatory reform, innovation, competition and anti-trust laws, terrorism and crime and immigration reform.

According to the committee’s website, they send the largest number of substantive bills to the House floor each year, which is something that makes Bush feel optimistic. She said she and her team have three primary areas of focus: the criminal legal system and policing; voting rights; and gun violence, from the standpoint of this being a problem born out of systemic oppression.

“In my eyes, it’s a huge win for our district where the Ferguson uprising happened,” she said. “To be in this position, to be able to work on policing, to work on the criminal legal system, to work on these issues that are still happening in a place where, for six years running strong, we’re still number one for police murder, from 2013 to 2019, to be able to work on that is just a huge deal, it’s a huge win.”

the coronavirus pandemic. Health care experts stress that everyone should continue to wear masks, continue to wash their hands frequently and thoroughly, and continue to keep a distance from others.

Dr. Alex Garza, incident commander of the St. Louis Metropolitan Pandemic Task Force, said Wednesday that COVID-positive daily hospitalizations remain very high.

“Our positivity rate though, is still very high — it’s hovering around 20% — that is our Task Force hospital

assistant a notice that she would be fired within 30 days before she alleged he had sex with the intern, which contradicted an earlier statement he gave indicating he had no prior concerns with the woman.

There was no documentation, according to the Ethics Committee report, that he had given the legislative assistant such a notice.

The Committee also stated in the report that Price’s lawyer violated House rules during Price’s testimony by attempting to record the private hearing, which was prohibited. He was asked to delete the recording and did so.

Committee findings

In the report, Ethics Committee members assert

diagnostic rate for testing,” Garza said. “We would want that to be down around that 5% mark before we’d feel comfortable with saying that we’ve adequately suppressed the virus.”

And just in time for Christmas are spikes in COVID-19 cases that may have come from those who ignored warnings against Thanksgiving holiday travel, parties and gettogethers with loved ones and friends who live outside of their own households.

And if past human behavior is any indicator, there may

that Price lied and committed perjury when it came to his statements about having sex with and communicating with the intern, threatened his legislative assistant for reporting the incident, obstructed the investigation by trying to coerce his legislative assistant to change her story and compromised the House’s ability “to provide a respectful, professional work environment.”

The committee recommended the House take several actions, including that he be censured, which is a formal statement by the House expressing disapproval, and that he pay $22,494 to cover the cost of the investigation.

And until the House does censure him, the committee recommends he conduct himself in a respectful manner,

Occupational health nurse Veronica Murray administers the coronavirus to Lori Weatherspoon, vice president and chief nursing officer at Christian Hospital as the first vaccines come into the St. Louis area for frontline health care workers.

be more of the same from in-person celebrations through New Year’s Day. Garza said, “we are still very much in crisis mode.”

“COVID-19 is a brutal, deadly and highly transmissible disease, and if we give it the opportunity, it will continue to spread through our communities and claim more lives,” Garza said. “That is why I must ask you again, to please, stay safe as you celebrate this Christmas holiday; celebrate at home; celebrate with people you live with; and do everything you can to keep

be barred from having an intern, removed from any committee assignments and denied the ability to hold a leadership position.

Missouri Democratic Party Chair Michael Butler released a statement last week, in response to the report.

“We want to thank the House Ethics Committee for investigating these allegations. The full House should determine appropriate actions after reconvening and examining the evidence,” he said.

Planned Parenthood Advocates and NARAL ProChoice Missouri also issued a statement, calling for Price to resign.

“The report of abuse of power by Representative Wiley Price this week leaves only one conclusion to be drawn

yourself and the people you love, from winding up in the hospital with this virus.” In Washington, the $900 billion bipartisan federal stimulus bill that would have put $600 in the hands of individuals is now in jeopardy, as the lame duck president said on Tuesday that he does not like the bill and wants $2,000 stimulus checks for individuals, otherwise, he said the next administration can come up with its own stimulus plan.

CNN reports Speaker Nancy Pelosi will move for a unanimous consent vote for $2,000 direct payments on Thursday, Dec. 24.

Finally, numbers from the Johns Hopkins University of Medicine Coronavirus Resource Center remind us of the human toll of COVID-19: 78,145,043 — that is the global confirmed number of COVID19 cases as of mid-morning on Dec. 23, with 1,719,973 people dead from this disease. In the U.S , there are more than 18.23 million confirmed cases of COVID-19 and nearly 323,000 deaths — deaths that could populate the entire City of St. Louis, plus 7%, according to 2019 U.S. Census Bureau estimates. Those deaths equate roughly to the size of Corpus Christi, Texas.

— he is unfit to serve and must immediately resign,” said Mallory Schwarz, Executive Director, NARAL Pro-Choice Missouri. Yamelsie Rodríguez, president and CEO, Advocates of Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region and Southwest Missouri, echoed that sentiment.

“When you’re serving in public office, you have a special responsibility to uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct,” Rodriguez said. “If you fall short of those standards and violate the trust of your constituents by abusing your power, you should take full responsibility for your actions and step aside.” Rep. Wiley Price IV is the son of The St. Louis American’s staff photographer Wiley Price III.

Photo/Lawrence Bryant

St. Rita’s Academy and the Oblate Sisters of Providence

By Sabrina Gorse, Missouri Historical Society

The story of St. Rita’s Academy—a convent and parochial school for Black girls—begins decades before the academy’s founding in 1912.

In the late 19th century, the pastor of St. Elizabeth Parish, Rev. Ignatius Panken, faced a conundrum. The parish—founded in 1873 at the intersection of 14th and Gay streets to serve Black Catholics—needed trained teachers to take over its school for African American children.

To solve this dilemma, Panken sent an invitation to an experienced sisterhood in Baltimore, Maryland, in 1880. The Oblate Sisters of Providence, founded in 1828, was considered the first permanent and successful Roman Catholic sisterhood for women of African descent.

After some consideration, the sisters accepted Panken’s invitation, sending Mother Louise Noel and three other sisters to St. Louis to take over the school and help establish the sisterhood’s St. Louis chapter. The sisters helped transform the school from a primary school in the church’s basement into a day and boarding school at its own building at 1411 Morgan Street. They also established the St. Francis Orphan Asylum in 1888, which was located on Page Avenue before it moved to Normandy, Missouri.

Conflict soon arose between the sisters and the parish’s new pastor, Rev. John McGuire, perhaps in part due to the new changes the parish was undergoing from within and without. When the parish moved to 2721 Pine Boulevard in 1912, the school was temporarily closed, and the sisters were released from their duties to the parish. No longer responsible for the parish’s school, the sisters were now free to pursue their own interests. They decided to open their own school, St. Rita’s Academy, also known as St. Rita’s Convent for Colored Nuns and Students. The academy first opened as a boarding school for young African American girls in rented rooms at 3009 Pine Street in September 1912. The next year, the sisters bought a house at 3128 Laclede Avenue. The academy soon ran out of space, and in 1921 the sisters purchased a property at their third and final location, 4650 South Broadway. The transition was rough and risky. The academy’s new home was in a white residential

neighborhood, where the sisters were met with racist hostility. When the other South Broadway property owners learned about the move, they formed a committee to protest the academy’s new location and called upon Building Commissioner McKelvey and Archbishop John J. Glennon to halt the move, fearing that the presence of African Americans in their neighborhood would damage the neighborhood’s reputation and depreciate the value of their properties.

In an August 1921 interview in the St. Louis Globe-Democrat, one of the residents claimed that the committee would try to remove the academy legally and accused the sisters of obtaining their permit to renovate their new residence under false pretenses. During the renovation, a night watchman patrolling the school scared off a trespasser, and the Oblate Sisters asked for police protection. In the end, the sisters won, and they remained on South Broadway for over 30 years.

From its inception in 1912, St. Rita’s Academy aimed to prepare African American girls for the challenges of the time. Starting off as a boarding school, the sisters expanded from elementary to junior high and high school educational modules by the 1930s. They taught a variety of courses, including English, Latin, Greek, modern languages, algebra, geometry, history, civics, shorthand, typewriting, grammar, biology, chemistry, religion, music, painting, drawing, and needlework. Supported by St. Rita’s League and St. Rita’s Aid Society, the academy remained active into the 1940s.

Unfortunately, the academy began losing pupils in the late 1940s and closed its doors around 1950. The sisters gained permission to open a home for working girls and women and a retreat center, but the establishment was largely unsuccessful and closed in 1954. In the fall of 1958, the sisters sold the house to the Missionary Fathers of Our Lady of La Salette. The house burned down in 1969.

The Missouri Historical Society’s “Seeing 1940s St. Louis” Sievers Studio Collection Project is made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services MA-30-180009-18. This article originally appeared on the Missouri Historical Society’s blog, historyhappenshere.org.

Ethiopian Artist Elias Sime Reigns Large at Art Museum

The Saint Louis Art Museum opened its Currents 118: Elias Sime in July shortly after the reopening of the Museum, and the exhibition will be on view through the end of January. With social distancing, masks, and enhanced safety protocols, the Museum is open to the public, and the art of Sime is well worth a visit.

Standing in front of the large-scale artworks by Sime, it is not immediately clear what materials the artist uses. Upon closer examination, one sees that Sime uses discarded technological materials such as electrical wires, circuit boards, motherboards, and computer keys. Some may label the artists’ materials as recycled, but Sime is more interested in how materials are reclaimed, reused, and given a new aesthetic life. He breaks, weaves, collages, and burns these assorted materials to create abstract images reminiscent of nature, urban cityscapes, and figures.

logical progress as well as its impact on humanity and nature.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

Virtual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Celebration

Inspired by Movement

Local Dancer, Singer, and Actor respond to Pulitzer-Winning photographer Moneta Sleet, Jr. photographs of the Civil Rights Movement.

Sime, born in 1968, grew up in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. He sources most of the materials for his art at the Merkato, the biggest open-air market in Africa. Sime is deeply involved in developing the Ethiopian art community and has established a research-practice studying rural communities’ ancient rituals. Sime co-founded Addis Ababa’s Zoma Museum with his long-time collaborator, the curator and anthropologist Meskerem Assegued. The museum, which opened in 2019, comprises a school, farm, garden, library, and space for exhibitions and other projects. The center has a holistic vision of merging art, community engagement, and sustainability.

Will be available on-demand at slam.org starting January 18

For Sime, the materials and his artworks tell the story of globalization and our interconnected world. He sees the movement of goods, especially technological refuse, as a system that connects people across the globe. The artworks on view at the Art Museum are part of an ongoing series that Sime titled Tightrope. The works of art in the series embody the advances made possible by techno-

Currents 118: Elias Sime is the 118th installment of the Saint Louis Art Museum’s popular “Currents” contemporary art series. Founded in 1978, the series showcases artwork created by local, national, and international emerging and mid-career artists. This free exhibition will be on view in Galleries 249 and 250 through January 31. Currents 118: Elias Sime is curated by Hannah Klemm, associate curator of modern and contemporary art, and Molly Moog, research assistant for modern and contemporary art.

Photo credit Brett Moen

Nun teaching her students chemistry at St. Rita’s Academy, 1945.

Photo by Sievers Studio. Missouri Historical Society Collections.

Midwest BankCentre pledges more than $100 million in loans

Industry award-winning Midwest exec Fennoy touts potential impact for economic development

By Karen Robinson-Jacobs For The

St. Louis American

St. Louis-based Midwest BankCentre, a major community bank with more than $2 billion in assets, plans to make $200 million in community and economic development loans over the next five years, with up to 80% of the money being spent in the St. Louis metro area, a bank executive told The American.

Announcement of the lending program, which kicks off in 2021, comes as activists push corporate leaders to address the pernicious impacts of racial and social inequality, and as the nearly year-long global pandemic pushes many small businesses into bankruptcy.

While the initiative is not a direct result of the devastation of 2020, the year’s events did put the need for action into sharper relief, creating a greater sense of urgency.

“We were talking about it before 2020,” said Alex Fennoy, the bank’s executive vice president for

community and economic development. “My feeling is that it would not have been as aggressive without being in the midst of everything that 2020 has been.

“I don’t think it would have, to be honest. [The year] had, in

my opinion, a very positive effect in pushing me and others to think ‘how much more can we help?’” The announcement also comes weeks after the American Bankers Association Foundation awarded its sixth annual George Bailey

Nyshaun Harvey, 23, is the proud owner of Latte Lounge and Kingdom Kids Learning Center, both in Florissant.

Distinguished Service Award to Fennoy, 52, and co-winner Detra Miller, of M&T Bank, for their efforts to expand banking services to underserved communities. The

23-year-old entrepreneur opens second business

Latte Lounge comes to Florissant

By Danielle Brown Of The St. Louis American

Nyshaun Harvey owns Kingdom Kids Learning Center and now Latte Lounge.

Harvey’s father’s untimely death in 2012 brought indescribable pain and sadness into her life, triggering unbearable migraines. She was 14 years old at the time and couldn’t fully process what happened.

After asking her mom for a cup of coffee, Harvey soon found a solution to her problem — the caffeine helped alleviate her symptoms, causing the migraines to subside.

From that day forward her love for coffee grew, even though it was tragedy that introduced her to a passion for caffeine. Last month, Harvey now 23, opened Latté Lounge, a stylish coffee shop two doors down from her day care facility, Kingdom Kids Learning Center.

n “We hope to be set apart by setting the tone when people walk in the door, that they can just feel that there’s something different when they walk in here.”

— Nyshaun Harvey

“It’s crazy how something that was so horrible happened to me birthed something so beautiful now,” Harvey said. “We’re six years later, but for two years I suffered from migraines and couldn’t figure out what was going on. Coffee [didn’t make migraines] go away, but instead made [the headaches] subside. That experience motivated me to create a business.”

In an indirect way, coffee was a motivator.

About two and a half years ago, Harvey wrote in her journal that she wanted to own a coffee shop.

Harvey didn’t immediately have a plan for how she would make that happen. She had just moved her day care facility from Jennings to Florissant, and sure enough, a year later she learned the space was up for sale. After reviewing its potential, Harvey concluded that the space was perfect for a coffee shop — and it was close enough that she could easily walk from her first business to her second one.

Planning, preparation and execution took 14 months. Her original plan was to have the renovation completed in six months, but the coronavirus pandemic made it take much longer. For example, just finding an affordable contractor was an issue and work had to conform to a range of city codes.

“Opening Latté Lounge during the pandemic was tough because I was not only in the process of opening a new business, I was also in the middle of running another one. Switching things around meant I had to take precautionary measures,” Harvey said.

“I definitely believe time was a huge factor and COVID had a role in

See FENNOY, A10 See

Covenant House Missouri has named Tyrone Ford as chief program officer. The new position was created to align with the organization’s already expanding services as part of an effort to grow housing opportunities for at-risk youth in the St. Louis area. In 2020, Covenant House Missouri has expanded its residential capacity from 30 to 40 beds a night. The organization recently announced the completion of their Wellness Center, a community resource for young people ages 16-24 to receive mental and physical health services. In his new role, Ford will work with all members of Covenant House Missouri’s leadership team as they work to support more youth experiencing homelessness.

Connections to Success names Ruth Lee chief executive officer

Connections to Success has appointed Ruth Lee as CEO, effective Jan. 4. Lee is a strategic leader with 25+ years of experience in Missouri nonprofit work, specializing in development, marketing and communications, human resources and corporate partnerships. Connections to Success was founded in 1998 as Dress for Success Midwest, with a mission of breaking the cycle of poverty by supporting participants as they work toward career goals. The organization has expanded its programs over the past 23 years to include personal and professional development, life coaching, mentoring, education and skills training, and networking in addition to the original confidence-building experience of having the right clothes for job interviews.

Sarah Thompson joins St. Louis Press Club board

Sarah Thompson Covenant House Missouri taps Tyrone Ford as chief program officer

Sarah Thompson, a public relations, marketing and media professional, has been named to the board of the St. Louis Press Club. Her company, Sarah Thompson LLC, focuses on nonprofit organizations and small businesses in the areas of arts, culture and lifestyle. Thompson is a three-time, Emmy Award-winning producer — and five-time nominee — receiving two Emmy Awards for arts & entertainment stories and one for a commercial campaign. She is the host and producer of STL TV’s “City Corner,” which also airs on ABC30. For the past 12 years, she has served as the weekly on-air events contributor on KMOV’s “News 4 Great Day,” and weekly host of STL TV’s “STL Live.”

Working with Habitat for Humanity, Alex Fennoy of Midwest BankCentre helps build a home in University City in 2018. The Bank had about 15 volunteers joining the project, including Steven Manning (in the background), an assistant branch center leader.

Tyrone Ford

Ruth Lee

Photo/ Brian Cassidy Location Photography

Photo by Danielle Brown

Lounge

Continued from A9

the time it took to open” she said. “I’m very grateful to finally be open and to allow people to order inside for takeout. It was tough, but it was worth it.”

With Starbucks and Dunkin Donuts also in the area, Harvey says she isn’t in competition with them. She believes her shop’s environment has a different feel from the chain establishments.

Its white walls brighten the space, and well-placed greenery lends a dramatic contrast.

Oversized photographs of her grandparents are on prominent display.

“We hope to be set apart by setting the tone when people walk in the door, that they can just feel that there’s something different when they walk in here,” Harvey said.

“I did a lot of copper tones and modern decor that people are looking for when they go into a coffee shop.

“They’re looking to take a

picture somewhere, because ‘what else are we going to do, right?’ Put it on Instagram.”

“The biggest thing that we want people to know about Kingdom Kids is we’re trying to train up the next genera-

tion to know who they are and whose they are,” Harvey said. “We live in a really cruel world.

“We want them to go out in that world and stand bold, stand fierce in front of those

around them and tell them this is who I am. We believe that the kids we’re encountering everyday are going to change nations and generations.”

Faith isn’t the only element that sets Harvey’s learning

Last month, Nyshaun Harvey opened Latté Lounge, a stylish coffee shop two doors down from her day care facility, Kingdom Kids Learning Center.

center apart from others. It also offers children organic food, and allows them to engage in interactive learning activities.

“We serve organic food because I strongly believe what goes into their bodies has a

major impact on their everyday life,” Harvey said. “We also provide them with experience by bringing in different groups sometimes such as the Bubble Bus [a colorful minivan offers bubble blowing parties around town]. On another day, there might be a petting zoo. We do those activities to keep youngsters engaged and active.”

The journey to Harvey having not one, but two businesses, wasn’t easy, but she appreciates it and believes it was all worth the effort in the end.

“I worked hard to get where I am today,” Harvey said. “I’m truly thankful for both locations and all that have come through them.”

Latté Lounge is at 2190 N. Waterford Drive, Florissant.

Hours: Monday through Friday, 7 a.m.to 6 p.m. and Saturday, 9 a.m.to 5 p.m. For more information visit its Facebook and Instagram pages @Latté Lounge.

Kingdom Kids Learning Center is at 2184 N Waterford Drive, Florissant Visit www.kingdomklc.com for more information.

Saga continues as Health Department once again targets Reign Restaurant

By Dana Rieck Of The St. Louis American

Since it opened this summer, Dana

Kelly’s

downtown restaurant has faced numerous governmental roadblocks and obstacles that officials say are related to coronavirus restriction violations.

In its latest move, the Health Department of St.Louis issued an order Dec. 15 that Kelly close her restaurant, Reign, at

1122 Washington Ave., for a year after allegedly violating two COVID-19 orders during the weekend of Dec. 12. Fredrick Echols, acting director of health, wrote that the restaurant was in violation of not observing social distancing and not requiring all people inside the building to wear masks. The closure was effective for a year unless all of the following conditions are met sooner: the COVID-19 posi-

tivity rate is at or below 5% in the city for 30 consecutive days; the COVID-19 vaccine becomes available for the general population and the city reaches herd immunity; and the pandemic has been declared over by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The downtown restaurant opened for business Aug. 1 and employs 70 people.

Kelly’s lawyer, Jonathan Lerman, said he believes Kelly

is being targeted because it serves a predominately Black clientele in a predominantly white neighborhood. He believes this because, he said, the anonymous tips the Health Department is citing regarding Reign aren’t so anonymous.

Lerman also pointed to what happened to the WheelHouse, at 1000 Spruce St., was ordered to close only 30 days after its third COVID-19 related violation.

“So how does 30 days turn into a full year? What’s the difference between Wheelhouse and Reign, at the end of the day?” Lerman asked.

In addition, Lerman sued the city in mid August after Reign received a letter ordering Kelly to halt operations for two weeks — two weeks after its grand opening. The city and Kelly reached an agreement that the lawsuit would be dismissed if Reign was up and running without issue or interference for 30 days.

Fennoy

Continued from A9

association’s highest individual honor is given to a non-CEO banker who has shown “outstanding initiative, effectiveness and inspiration to others.”

“At a time when our industry is looking for meaningful ways to expand access to banking and promote financial inclusion, Detra and Alex provide incredible examples for other bankers to follow,” Rob Nichols, ABA president and CEO said in a statement.

The award is named for the irrepressible character played by Jimmy Stewart in the Christmas movie “It’s a Wonderful Life,” who was motivated largely by his love for his hometown.

Fennoy grew up an only

Lerman said he filed to dismiss the lawsuit in early October.

“Two days later, we get another two-week shutdown notice from the Health Department for allegations that dated all the way back to Sept. 4 or 5,” he said. “Which means, apparently, according to them, there have been violations going on for a month, although we still haven’t seen any evidence to support that and we have asked multiple times.”

Both Kelly and Lerman believe the continued orders to close are also connected to Kelly’s intention to run for mayor. Kelly confirmed Tuesday that she plans to file to be on the ballot within a week.

“I think we are familiar with the way that politics have run locally in St. Louis for generations, I won’t speculate but we see the past is defining the present,” Kelly said.

As for the letter Dec. 15,

child in East St. Louis. He sees the lending initiative as an extension of work he began when he joined the bank in 2010, focusing on historically underserved communities. He joined Midwest following a career in commercial lending at major institutions including PNC, Regions Bank and Bank of America.

“Our goal at Midwest ... is always, always a big tent philosophy,” he said. “How can we bring in more people and businesses that have been out of mainstream banking? How can we bring them in and do our part to help revitalize and bring historically disinvested neighborhoods, areas [and] communities up to the level that they ... want to be?

“We want to be a part of those that spur economic development.”

When Fennoy joined the

Lerman noted Kelly had rented the space out to recording artist Toosii2x with the understanding he was going to use the patio to film a music video. When Kelly arrived to check in on the space, she found Toosii2x and his group instead hosting a concert and violating social distancing and mask wearing mandates. She said she ordered him out immediately and called in her staff to do a deep clean.

“What’s not being said is that not one case of COVID has been traced back to my restaurant,” she said. Echols did not return a call for comment. Lerman confirmed Echols denied his request Monday afternoon to lift the closure order so Reign could resume business and said there would be a hearing to contest that decision next week.

“We have opened up after each hearing, because we haven’t done anything wrong,” Kelly said.

bank he said his initial focus was on reaching area residents who used expensive check cashing and lending services — which can lead to more than $1,000 annually in fees and other costs — rather than establishing a relationship with a commercial bank.

He also helped foster partnerships that resulted in profitable bank branches being established in the largely Black community of Pagedale and at Friendly Temple Church in the Wells-Goodfellow neighborhood of north St. Louis. As part of the SBA’s Paycheck Protection Program, launched in response to the coronavirus pandemic, the bank made more than $206 million in loans. Nearly 90% of the 1,400 loans were issued in amounts under $150,000, he said.

“We really got to the heart of what the program was intended to do,” Fennoy said. The initiative — dubbed community and economic development 2.0 — will channel loans to small businesses, non-profits, faith-based groups and community development projects.

Though most of the loans will be issued with market-level interest rates. Fennoy said businesses and organizations will benefit through increased access to capital, which will add to the tax base and help spur job creation.

The program will focus on lending “because that’s the key for people having success,” in low- to moderate-income areas or to businesses owned by minority individuals, Fennoy said.

The bank board “is saying ‘Alex, we trust and believe in what you’re doing’ and ... it’s just inspiring to be able to have that.”

Photo by Danielle Brown

$81 million revitalization project to target O’Fallon Park Neighborhood

St. Louis American Staff

An $81 million revitalization project was recently announced as the goal of a partnership between AMJ Investment Group, Kwame Building Group, St. Louis and Alderman John Collins-Muhammad.

The project has been deemed The City District and aims to revitalize 10 blocks in the historic O’Fallon Park Neighborhood in north St. Louis, according to a news release. The project aims to complete new construction as well as redevelopment of 610,000 square feet, creating 128 parcels of retail space, single and multi-family homes and community green space.

The project is scheduled to be completed in Spring 2025.

“The City District is about taking direct responsibility for the economic development of the next generation of our city. This project aims to not simply ‘redevelop’ the O’Fallon neighborhood, but also provide overdue opportunities and a well-deserved chance for the area to economically thrive,” said Miki Jones in the news release.

Jones is president of AMJ Investment Group and The City District’s developer.

The release outlined two separate phases in the project. Phase one will cost approximately $34 million and will demolish 66 parcels of property — 50% of which are currently vacant — and the land will be reallocated for new construction of retail, homes and community green spaces.

Demolition is set to begin in March.

In addition, the construction team will also construct a city plaza during phase one, which aims to create a vibrant shopping and recreational area for a “thriving local labor force.”

During phase two of the project, $1 million will be invested in rehabilitating 26 existing homes, some of which will be converted into multi-use rental properties while retaining their architectural history.

Phase two will also include a $24 million project to construct new single and multi-family homes.

“This development project represents the future of our community,” Collins-Muhammad said in the release. “These community-led developments not only bring much needed quality housing and commercial construction to our treasured part of North City, but also demonstrate

Collins-Muhammad represents the area in which the development is planned for.

our commitment to revitalization through grassroots organizing and community planning.”

The O’Fallon Park Neighborhood

The O’Fallon Park neighborhood was created from divided farmland nearly 145 years ago, according to The City District’s release.

This is one of several redevelopment projects planned for this area of North St. Louis.

The others include the new $2 billion National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency located three miles away and a planned $80 million medical school for Ponce Health Sciences University.

9,276

More than 1,000 workers could be employed daily in 2022 during peak construction of the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency’s new $1.75 billion facility project, which broke ground on November 26, 2019. The city’s inclusion goals require that a minimum of 25 percent of the contract’s labor hours go to minorities, 7 percent go to women, 23 percent to city residents and 20 percent to apprentices.

“I’m proud of this ambitious plan to bring redevelopment to the 21st Ward,” said CollinsMuhammad in the press release. “Working with the talented and zealous representatives of the AMJ Investment Group coupled with construction management expertise of Kwame Building Group, we are relaying a foundation to foster an economic resurgence in north city.”

O’Fallon Park

Krewson tells officials Workhouse won’t close before Dec. 31 deadline

By Dana Rieck Of The

St. Louis American

St. Louis Mayor Lyda

Krewson confirmed to government officials last week the Workhouse will not close by the end of this month.

St. Louis’ Medium Security Institution, more commonly known as “the Workhouse,” has operated on Hall Street near the Mississippi riverfront since 1966.

The Board of Aldermen passed Board Bill 92 unanimously on July 17. The bill was based on a plan by the the group known as the Close the Workhouse Campaign. The bill also establishes two funds of $7.6 million to address neighborhood safety and re-entry programs for inmates.

Krewson told several government officials on Dec. 16 during the monthly Board of Estimate and Apportionment meeting that the jail will not close on Dec. 31. About 100 inmates are being held at the Workhouse.

After summarizing previous updates done to facilities at the Workhouse and mentioning a study that looked at what exactly the city’s needs are when it comes to jails, Krewson then addressed the issue of closing it on Dec. 31.

She said Corrections Commissioner Dale Glass is exploring the option of transferring those 100 inmates to a jail in Kentucky, which is about a four-hour drive from St. Louis. Krewson noted that Glass doesn’t think this is a good solution, but they will continue to consider it until a more suitable alternative is available.

“The long and short of this update is that we have a lot of things in the works but right now we have 100 detainees that are at MSI and we are not going to overcrowd [City Justice Center] and put people on the floor on mattresses in order just to close MSI in 10 days.”

Aldermanic President Lewis Reed and Comptroller Darlene Green argued with each other during the meeting, sparked by comments Green made accusing the Board of Aldermen of passing the ordinance for show, without real intention of following through.

“I don’t know what the next steps are, Madame Mayor, in terms of getting a step closer to closing MSI but I think we need to get definition to that — if in fact the ordinance had any meaning at all,” Green said.

“But as it stands now, I would declare that there was no meaning to that board bill or that ordinance that was signed, and the public should feel that some of these board bills that are signed before an election … are just gestures.” Reed said he was insulted by Green’s comments and said that a lot of work has been put into the effort and that they could not have predicted the ramifications of the coronavirus pandemic.

“It’s this kind of politics played on big issues that continue to hurt our city,” Reed said, noting the Board and Glass are working on plans in order to get the Workhouse closed. Krewson pointed out that the job of actually closing the Workhouse is the responsibility of the the mayor’s office.

Lyda Krewson

Living It

Shabazz, ‘Voice of the Streets’ continues success despite

pandemic

Streetz

105.1 radio personality aims to be a guiding light

in the community

By Danielle Brown

Of The St. Louis American

Has the coronavirus pandemic slowed the success of Dsmoovee Shabazz’s “Voice of the Streets” on Streetz 105.1, the St. Louis-based online radio station?

No, it hasn’t.

Despite ongoing crises, Shabazz has maintained high ratings while interviewing more than 400 guests from March until now. Guests have included Cori Bush, U. S. representative-elect from Missouri’s 1st Congressional District, and representatives from the St. Louis Board of Election Commissioners.

n “I’m going to funnel it all through me and make sure you get everything you need to hear and know everything that you need to know.”

- Dsmoovee Shabazz

“The pandemic didn’t stop anything for me,” Shabazz said. “It only elevated what I already had going on because I didn’t let the mentality of what’s going on stop me from achieving what I wanted to do and what I visualize.”

Shabazz realizes the importance of using due diligence in inviting guests to his show — regardless of the pandemic — his goal is to spread knowledge about good things happening in our communities.

“The word has to get out no matter what it is, who it is, where it is,” Shabazz said. “I’m going to funnel it all through me and make sure you get everything you need to hear and know everything that you need to know.”

While some local stations might focus solely on music, Shabazz saw the need to bring something different to the city by implementing a primarily community-oriented mission. As someone who has a strong sense of pride in his community and aspires to provide the people with knowledge and resources, the “Voice”

is on a mission to spread knowledge about good things happening in St.

struck the right tone. “The vision of my show is to put St. Louis on the map and give St. Louis the resources that we have, show them in a better light, and spotlight everybody in St. Louis doing something posi-

tive,” Shabazz said. Shabazz’s passion for serving through his show aligns with his new role in the Urban

See Shabazz, B6

Black Hair Matters: How Going Natural Made Me Visible

By Cara Anthony Kaiser Health News

The night before I chopped off my hair, I got nervous.

This decision felt bigger than me, given all the weight that Black women’s hair carries. But after three months of wearing hats and scarves in a pandemic when trips to the hairdresser felt unsafe, I walked into a salon emotionally exhausted but ready to finally see my natural hair.

I thought a few tears would fall, but, as the last of my chemically straightened hair floated to the floor like rain, I felt cleansed. Free. I laughed hysterically as I drove away from the salon.

Friends and family cheered me on virtually, but my father quietly worried about my decision. My dad grew up in the Jim Crow South, where many women straightened their hair to land jobs, husbands and respect. Before my big chop, he never said much about my hair beyond the occasional compliment, which is why I was surprised when he issued a warning.

“Watch it out there. Your hair is cut now,” he blurted when he saw me walking out of the house.

My mother heard him but remained silent. She had her own set of concerns. She was worried about me looking less professional.

I also had to help my now 4-year-old daughter understand why I decided to go natural. We’ve watched the animated “Hair Love” a million times. We’ve read books like “Happy Hair” by Mechal Renee Roe, “I Love My Hair!” by Natasha Anastasia Tarpley and my personal favorite, “Don’t Touch My Hair!” by Sharee Miller.

Still, my daughter had a hard time adjusting

to my haircut, often asking when I planned to get my hair styled again. She preferred my extensions, saying she thought I looked more like a princess that way. I gently explained that my hair is a style — and the one I choose — even if it’s not long and straight.

On the night of my haircut, I drove to the store more aware of how others would perceive my new look. My father, however, was more worried about my safety because my silhouette could possibly be mistaken for a Black man’s frame.

A blessing beyond the grief

‘A New Holiday’ shares Christmas story with timely significance

By Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American

What started out as a way to celebrate the 70th birthday of philanthropist and community gem Thelma Steward evolved into what director and co-writer Brian Owens feels is a divinely timed holiday musical film experience. David Steward, founder and chairman of World Wide Technology, had seen Owens’ “Soul of Ferguson Revue,” which aired on PBS this summer. He reached out in the hopes of attaining something similar in format to that musical experience and — as per usual — pulled out all the stops for his wife’s birthday, which falls just a few days before Christmas.

“Because of COVID, they couldn’t do what they would normally do,’” Owens said. “I don’t know what happened, but two-and-a-half weeks later this turned into, ‘we are doing a movie with dialogue with characters.’”

“A New Holiday” debuted on the Nine Network Monday, Dec. 21st, and aired again on Dec. 23. It will be available through Owens’ YouTube channel.

“It’s a special, special project that I think only could have happened in this time,” Owens said. “I’m excited for people to see the excellence that can happen when a project has a purpose and is tied to something bigger than itself.”

“A New Holiday” tells the story of a little girl named Thelma. She must face her first Christmas without the family matriarch — her beloved grandma Dorothy. Inspired by real-life events, this will be the Stewards first Christmas without Dorothy Steward. She died in July. It will also be the first Christmas Owens will experience without his mother Roberta Owens, who died in March.

n “A New Holiday” debuted on the Nine Network Monday, Dec. 21st, and aired again on Dec. 23. It will be available through Owens’ YouTube channel.

My family’s emotions about my hair left me tangled.

Of course, the styling of Black hair has been fraught for centuries. The CROWN Act, which passed the U.S. House in September and is now pending in the Senate, is intended to protect Black people from discrimination in schools, housing and employment based on their hairstyle. But such a law, even if passed, cannot stop bigotry, bullets and the emotional battle that comes with being a Black woman in America as seen through something as simple as our hair.

I hadn’t considered talking to my daughter about how hair could affect her personal safety until my father broke his silence. A haircut shouldn’t influence your life expectancy.

On the night of my haircut, I drove to the store more aware of how others would perceive my new look. My father, however, was more worried about my safety because my silhouette could possibly be mistaken for a Black man’s frame.

We live in just outside St. Louis, where natural hair still makes a statement for Black

See Hair, B6

“Knowing that so many people are also dealing with loss and change this year, not even just with COVID, but with life,” Owens said. “My kids are dealing with that this year — their first Christmas without their grandmother.”

Owens co-wrote

“A New Holiday” with Broadway veteran and St. Louis native Sophia Stephens.

“Sophia was the driver of this script,” Owens said.

They were building from the idea and the struggle of, “Is Christmas going to feel like Christmas?”

“Because for so many people, traditional Christmas is tied to memories with a special family member or loved one,” Owens said.

Stephens also stars in the film alongside NBC’s “The Voice” finalist Kennedy Holmes, music and stage veteran Anita Jackson and newcomer Riley Adams in the role of little Thelma.

Nine-time Grammy winner Wynton Marsalis serves as narrator for “A New Holiday” and the film features performances by Grammy winners David Sanborn, Karen Clark-Sheard and BeBe Winans. Owens also co-wrote the original music

Photo by Troy Anthony Swanson

Dsmoovee Shabazz

Louis.

Cara Anthony

Sports

InSIdE SportS

With Earl Austin Jr.

Signees for Mizzou football; girls Christmas Tournament and 1,000-pt

First-year head coach Eli Drinkwitz has been true to his word when he said that he was putting an emphasis on recruiting the talented prospects from the St. Louis area when he took over the University of Missouri football program.

Coach Drink managed to corral six excellent players from the St. Louis area during the last week’s National Signing Day, plus he received a couple of verbal commitments from two of the top prospects in the Class of 2022 from the St. Louis area. Among the top players signing with Mizzou were standout quarterback Tyler Macon of East St. Louis, who is graduating from high school early to begin his studies in Columbia in the spring session. Also signing with Mizzou were defensive end Travion Ford of Lutheran North, defensive tackle Mekhi Wingo of DeSmet, running back Tyler Hibbler of Trinity, tight end Ryan Hoerstkamp of Washington and wide receiver Dominic Lovett of East St. Louis. Lovett, a four-star recruit, had originally committed to Arizona State, but he flipped that commitment to Mizzou and signed last week.

The good recruiting news continued for the Tigers when they got verbal commitments from juniors Ja’Marion Wayne of Parkway West and Isaac Thompson of SLUH. Thompson is a 6’2” 205-pound defensive back while Wayne is a 6’3” 180-pound athlete.

One other top junior prospect from the area who committed last week was junior running back Arlen Harris, Jr. of Lutheran St. Charles, who gave a verbal pledge to Stanford. The 5’11” 205-pound

college

players

pound Harris has enjoyed a huge career at Lutheran St. Charles, having rushed for 3,636 yards and 71 touchdowns during his first three years. Visitation Tournament Continues

One of the big holiday tournaments that is still tak-

ing place is the Visitation Christmas Tournament, which annually fields many of the top girls’ programs in the St. Louis area. The action at Visitation continues on Saturday with some excellent matchups in the quarterfinals. Fourth-seeded Whitfield will face No. 5 seed Cardinal Ritter at 4 p.m.; No.

1 seed Incarnate Word vs. No. 8 seed Marquette at 5:30 p.m.; No. 10 seed Lift for Life vs. No. 2 seed Webster Groves at 7 p.m. and No. 3 seed Westminster vs. No. 6 seed Parkway North at 8:30 p.m. The semifinals will be held on Sunday evening at 7 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. The championship game is scheduled for

SportS EyE

With Alvin A. Reid

Monday night at 8:30 p.m. The biggest development of last Saturday’s first-round action came when Lift for Life defeated No. 7 seed St. Joseph’s 60-57. Making its first appearance in the Visitation Tournament, the Hawks came through with an incredible signature win for this emerging girls program. Lift for Life was

led by junior guard Taylor Brown, who had 19 points, five rebounds and four steals. Junior guard Mackenzie Wilson had 16 points, senior guard Na’Teonia Russell added 11 points while senior forward Daniyah Ward had a game-high 11 rebounds. The Whitfield Warriors defeated Eureka 59-50 in the first round on Saturday night. The victory completed a big day of competition for the Warriors, who were also in action earlier that afternoon against North County in the championship game of the Fort Zumwalt North Tournament. Whitfield defeated North County 64-36 to win the championship before heading over to Visitation to start play in the Christmas Tournament.

Area College Players reach 1,000 points

Congratulations go out to a pair of former St. Louis area high school basketball standouts who have reached the 1,000-point plateau during the collegiate careers in the St. Louis area.

Former East St. Louis High standout Deshawn Munson scored his 1,000th career point at Harris- Stowe State University earlier this season in a victory over Baker University. The 6’3” Munson reached 1,000 points at Harris-Stowe in just his 34th game with the Hornets. He was an NAIA All-American last season after leading the nation in scoring.

Former University City High standout T.J. Crockett reached the 1,000point plateau last week for Lindenwood University. The 6’1” Crockett reached the milestone last week when he scored 28 points in the Lions’ 84-72 over No. 25 UMSL. Crockett has already been named the Great Lakes Valley Player of the week twice this season.

Negro Leagues stars finally hit the number

Negro Leagues superstar James “Cool Papa” Bell was one of the best baseball players to wear St. Louis on a uniform. His statistics can now officially be compared to those of St. Louis Cardinals stars including the late Hall of Famer Lou Brock.

Major League Baseball announced last week it will recognize various Negro Leagues as “major leagues,” ending a vestige of racism that had gone on a century. Commissioner Robert Manfred said in a statement, “MLB seeks to ensure that future generations will remember the approximately 3,400 players of the Negro Leagues during this time period (192048) as Major League-caliber ballplayers. Accordingly, the statistics and records of these players will become a part of Major League Baseball’s history.” Unfortunately, many (probably most) Negro League games did not have a box score. Hall of Famer Josh Gibson will only be credited with 238 home

runs. He probably hit more than Barry Bond’s record 762. Former Cardinal Ray Lankford also hit 238 home runs. Bell is among 35 Negro Leagues players in the Hall of Fame. Baseball is a game of numbers and statistics and, finally, these players’ records are a part of baseball’s history and lore.

Bell played 10 of his 21 seasons in the Negro Leagues as a member of the St. Louis Stars. During his career he had 1,096 hits (an average of 205 hits over 162 games, the length of today’s Major League season) and a .317 batting average. He averaged 29 doubles, 10 triples, seven home runs and 27 stolen bases per 162 games.

MLB historian John Thorn said in the MLB statement, “The perceived deficiencies of the Negro Leagues’ structure and scheduling were born of MLB’s exclusionary practices, and denying them Major League status has been a double penalty, much like that exacted of Hall of Fame candidates prior to Satchel Paige’s

induction in 1971.” Paige was the first Negro Leagues player inducted into the Hall of Fame.

STL in the NBA?

Last January, Chicago bil-

Topps created this baseball card honoring James “Cool Papa” Bell’s Hall of Fame in 1974.

has the money. He might get his opportunity to land an expansion NBA team in a few years.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver told media members on Monday his league has studied “the ramifications of expanding beyond 30 teams.”

“I think I’ve always said that it’s sort of the manifest destiny of the league that you expand at some point. You know, we’re very appreciative of the markets that have indicated an interest in having an NBA team,” Silver said. While Seattle might be first in line since it lost its successful franchise to Oklahoma City, Chaifetz makes St. Louis a real player in the expansion game.

lionaire Richard Chaifetz told the St. Louis Business Journal, “I’d love to be involved with a team in St. Louis in the NBA. Chaifetz, a Saint Louis University graduate who founded Chicago-based ComPsych Corp., certainly

The Reid Roundup Reigning U.S. Open singles champion Naomi Osaka saluted LeBron James Colin Kaepernick, U.S, women’s soccer star Megan Rapinoe and other stalwarts of equality in a New York Times op-ed published Monday. “Just because we are

athletes doesn’t mean we are unaffected by what happens around the country, nor does it obligate us to keep our mouths shut,” Osaka wrote… Secondyear Miami coach Brian Flores is a favorite for NFL Coach of the Year honors. He’s stepping up for a Black head coach candidate – Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy. “If EB’s not a head coach here soon, something’s wrong,” Flores said… After leading the Detroit Lions to a playoff berth and back-to-back 9-7 seasons, Jim Caldwell was fired in 2018 and replaced by Matt Patricia. Patricia was fired earlier this season. Caldwell has interviewed for the Houston Texans job. 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.”

Alvin A. Reid

Earl Austin Jr.

Among the top players signing with Mizzou were standout quarterback Tyler Macon of East St. Louis.

St. LouiS american Career Center St.

CIRCUIT COURT FACILITY SERVICES SUPERVISOR

St. Louis County Circuit Court is seeking a Facility Services Supervisor to perform work of marked difficulty in planning, scheduling, coordinating and supervising the activities of facilities staff assigned to the Court’s Operations Department. This position includes coordination of facility and maintenance issues in the Court’s building and satellite offices. Work includes supervision of custodial services, food services, laundry, Family Court security officers and transportation officers, office supply inventory, and telecommunications.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration (4 years of related experience working may be substituted in lieu of college) or a related area is preferred, plus at least 2 years of experience in facilities management, office management, property management, or a related area; prior experience in food service management is desirable; or any equivalent combination of training and experience. The salary range is $45,399.60-$72,639.36. This position is eligible for 10% addition to pay. TO APPLY: Complete an online application and submit a resume and cover letter by the end of the day on December 30, 2020: http://agency. governmentjobs.com/stlouis/default. cfm EOE. Please contact the Human Resources Department at 615-4471 (voice) or RelayMo 711 or 800-735-2966 if you need any accommodations in the application process, or if you would like this posting in an alternative form.

PRESIDENT & CEO

The International Institute of St. Louis is seeking its next President & CEO. For further information and to apply, click here: https://bit.ly/34W8t0b

DEPUTY SHERIFFCIVIL PROCESS

The St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office is seeking applicants for the position of Deputy Sheriff- Civil Process. Starting salary: $14.49/hr ($30,139.20 annually).

The individual selected for this position uses their personal vehicle to serve legal documents such as summons, subpoenas, garnishments, and orders of protection to residences and businesses in an assigned area within St. Louis County (All work related mileage expense is reimbursed to the employee at 100% of the IRS mileage reimbursement rate). The employee also performs administrative duties related to service of those documents, serves as a fill-in bailiff in the St. Louis County courthouse on an as-needed basis, and performs other additional duties as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

1 year of education, training, or experience in law enforcement, investigations, or corrections, or completion of an accredited law enforcement training program, or any equivalent combination of education or experience. TO APPLY: Complete an online application at https://www. governmentjobs.com/careers/stlouis under the title “SHERIFF POSITIONS”

EOE. Please contact the St. Louis County Division of Personnel at 615-5429 (voice) or RelayMo 711 or 800-735-2966 if you need any accommodations in the application process.

BAILIFF

The St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office is seeking applicants for the position of Bailiff located in the St. Louis County Courthouse in Clayton. Starting salary: $14.11/hr ($29,348.80 annually). Bailiffs maintain security by inspecting and securing the courtroom, surrounding hallways and doors, and the judge’s chamber before and after court sessions. Bailiffs maintain order by observing courtroom proceedings to prevent unnecessary disruptions and taking custody of individuals as instructed by the judge. Bailiffs provide assistance to the jury panel by giving instructions, answering general questions, ensuring no contact occurs with unauthorized materials or persons, and escorting to and from the jury deliberation room. Bailiffs provide assistance to the judge and courtroom personnel by reviewing courtroom documents for completion, serving legal papers, and by filing, retrieving, and faxing documents. Bailiffs also respond to medical emergencies as appropriate and perform additional duties as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

1 year of education, training, or experience in law enforcement, investigations, or corrections, or completion of an accredited law enforcement training program, or any equivalent combination of education or experience. TO APPLY: Complete an online application at https://www. governmentjobs.com/careers/stlouis under the title “SHERIFF POSITIONS”. EOE. Please contact the St. Louis County Division of Personnel at 615-5429 (voice) or RelayMo 711 or 800-735-2966 if you need any accommodations in the application process.

SPECIALIST ACCOUNT SERVICES QUALITY CONTROL

REGULATORY REPORTING ANALYST I

The Regulatory Reporting Analyst is responsible for all aspects of data quality and analysis of transactional claim data being sent to Regulatory Reporting bureaus and agencies. They will partner with internal and external data providers to ensure the quality of incoming data, as well as resolve data issues while strategically trying to drive continuous improvement efforts to eliminate root causes. This position within the Regulatory Reporting Unit is responsible for providing accurate transactional claim and associated premium data to allow for making the best business decisions possible

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

Responsible for performing thorough inspections of PSA issued policies and policy transactions. This includes workers’ compensation, commercial auto and general liability lines of business. Additional documents will include state mandatory workers’ compensation posting notices, auto ID cards when applicable and any other state required documents issued from the PSA department.

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

LOSS PORTFOLIO TRANSFER CLAIMS MANAGER

Responsible for handling assigned claims from initial assignment to closure, as well as provide assistance in various administrative functions associated with the Loss Portfolio Transfer (LPT) Workers’ Compensation line of business. To apply, please visit: https://www.safetynational.com/ careers-page/

Safe Connections is hiring for the following positions: • Part-Time Crisis Helpline Advocate • Full-Time Adult Therapist LPC/LCSW • Adult Services Clinical Manager LPC/LCSW

Full Description and Apply at safeconnections.org

The Mission of Safe Connections is to reduce the impact and incidence of relationship violence and sexual assault through education, crisis intervention, counseling and support services.

CORRECTIONAL OFFICER

The City of Jennings is seeking to hire a full time Correctional Officer. Duties entail working a 12-hour shift that includes: booking, processing and supervising prisoners. Must be high school graduate or GED; 21 years of age and have no disqualifying criminal history. Valid driver’s license preferred. Starting salary C-8-C $ 30,571. Must complete corrections application available at Jennings City Hall, 2120 Hord Ave. or online at www.cityofjennings.org NO RESUMES ACCEPTED WITHOUT COMPLETED APPLICATION! Returned application must include a current record check from St. Louis City and County Police Dept. Application accepted until January 8, 2021 at 5 p.m.

PROGRAM ACCOUNTANT

Responsible for claims payment funds for primary workers’ compensation, Auto/ GL and WC and daily cash deposits for all companies.

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

SENIOR FINANCIAL REPORTING ACCOUNTANT

Ensure accuracy of STAT and GAAP accounting and reporting. Prepare and review subsidiary Agency’s financial information/results. Prepare analyses during the month end close process, complete tasks associated with the Company’s quarterly and annual statutory and GAAP reporting requirements. Assist with preparation of Capital Models. Ensure accuracy of information reported to rating agencies. Complete special projects for the department.

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

The City of Jennings is seeking to hire Code Enforcement Inspector. Duties include conducting interior/exterior inspections, writing reports, issuing citations, and testifying in court. Must be familiar with ICC codes and have current valid driver’s license. Three years of experience as an inspector and ICC certification preferred. Starting annual salary $32,538.00 (GS-11). Applications available at Jennings City Hall, 2120 Hord Ave. or at www.cityofjennings.org NO RESUMES ACCEPTED WITHOUT COMPLETION OF OUR APPLICATION! Completed applications may be mailed, emailed to jobs@cityofjennings.org or faxed to 314-388-3999. Applications accepted until January 8, 2021.

FINANCIAL REPORTING ACCOUNTANT

Ensure internal management reports, reports used in monthly/quarterly/annual accounting close process and internal management presentations are complete and accurate and prepared on a timely basis. To apply, please visit: https://www.safetynational. com/careers-page/

DATA QUALITY ANALYST II

Responsible for all aspects of data quality and analysis. Will be accountable for developing data quality reporting which requires analytical skills and an aptitude for data, as well as resolve data issues while strategically trying to drive continuous improvement efforts to eliminate root causes. This position partners with assigned business units and provides accurate data to allow for making the best business decisions possible. Must identify and drive continuous improvements in the quality and availability of corporate data. To apply, please visit: https://www.safetynational.com/ careers-page/

EXCITING new position has just opened up with Parents as Teachers National Center… We are hiring for a National Director of Equity!

The National Director of Equity serves as the primary subject matter expert and architect for Parents as Teachers National Center’s diversity and cross-cultural relations plans and programs that has an international impression. This position has a broad reach with building up an organizational culture surrounding diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) efforts and aims to foster diversity across — and beyond — the organization, from staff, to vendors and suppliers, to the community organizations they partner with and support, to the PATNC Board of Directors.

Please visit parentsasteachers.org to learn more about us, view a full job description, and apply today! CODE

St. LouiS american Bids

NOTICE TO MINORITY & DISADVANTAGED BUSINESSES

Poettker Construction Company is seeking bids from minority and disadvantaged businesses for the MUHC – Renovate Areas in PCT and CCA for CHPS and CBCU project at the University of Missouri in Columbia, MO. A Diversity Participation goal of 10% MBE / 10% Combined WBE, DBE, Veteran Owned Business and 3% SDVE has been established for this contract. All interested and certified businesses should contact Robert Schubert at 618-526-3385 or rschubert@poettkerconstruction.com to discuss opportunities. All bids must be received by EOB on Monday, January 4th. Bid documents are available for download through the following link: https://securecc.smartinsight.co/#/ PublicBidProject/555070

400 South Germantown Road

Breese, IL 62230

Phone: 618-526-7213 Fax: 618-526-7654

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BID

S. M. Wilson & Co. is formally requesting bids for the renovations to MUHC - Various Locations - Renovate Areas in PCT and CCA for CHPS and CBCU in Columbia, MO.

The bid date/time will be January 5th, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. CST.

Bids may be emailed to bids@smwilson.com (preferred method), or through Building Connected.

Drawings, Specifications and Front End Documents can be downloaded via Building Connected. Please visit https://smwilson.com for a link to the planroom.

Please contact Greg Kutz; greg.kutz@smwilson.com for more information.

Bid

Notice is hereby given that The Metropolitan St.

SITE

CLEARING AND GRUBBING RFP 2021

The Saint Louis Zoo seeks proposals from qualified companies to provide site clearing within the boundary limits. All tree clearing must be completed by April 1, 2021. Site clearing and grubbing will take place on the Saint Louis Zoo’s WildCare Park to prepare for the installation of a new perimeter fence to secure the 425-acre property. Bid documents are available as of 12/23/2020 on the Saint Louis Zoo website: stlzoo.org/vendor

Notice To Small (SBE), Disadvantaged (DBE), Minority (MBE), Women’s (WBE), Service Disabled Veteran Owned (SDVOB) & Veteran Owned (VOB) Businesses Advertisement River City Construction, L.L.C., 6640 American Setter Drive, Ashland, Missouri 65010, (573) 657-7380 (Phone) (573) 657-7381 (Fax) Is Seeking Qualified Small, Disadvantaged, Minority, Women’s, Service Disabled Veteran Owned & Veteran Owned Businesses For The University of Missouri CP210751 –RENOVATE AREAS IN PCT AND CCA FOR CHPS AND CBCU Columbia, Missouri: for subcontracting opportunities in the following areas: demolition, rough carpentry, roofing, doors, glazing, painting, drywall, flooring, specialties, seismic protection, plumbing, fire suppression, HVAC, electrical, communications, electronic safety. All interested and qualified SBE, DBE, WBE, SDVOB, AND VOB businesses should contact, in writing, (certified letter, return receipt requested) Justin Beaty or Joe Seymour to discuss the subcontracting opportunities. All negotiations must be completed prior to the bid opening date1/05/2021 @ 1:30 P.M. Proposals will be evaluated in order on the basis of low responsive bid

MBE/WBE/DBE/ Veteran/SDVE

PJ Hoerr, Inc. Is Soliciting Construction Bids for the following; University of Missouri, Columbia University MUHC – Various Locations Renovate Areas in PCT and CCA for CHPS & CBCU Bid Date: 1/5/21 @ 1:30pm Contact: Gabriel Rodriguez, gabe@pjhoerr.com Phone: 309-688-9567 Phone: 309-688-9556

www.stlamerican.com

ADVERTISING AND MARKETING SERVICES

The Missouri Lottery is accepting bids for the purpose of establishing a contract for advertising and marketying services. The bid document with the specifications can be obtained by going to http://www.molottery.com/ learnaboutus/bid_opportunities.shtm or by contacting Melissa Blankenship at melissa.blankenship@molottery. com or 573-751-4050.

NOTICE TO MINORITY AND WOMEN OWNED BUSINESSES

Korte & Luitjohan Contractors, Inc. is seeking qualified Minority and Women-Owned businesses for first and second tier-level subcontractors or suppliers for the LaunchCode Techforce Center renovation project located in St. Louis, MO.

Interested subcontractors /suppliers must be certified with the Missouri Regional Certification Committee (“MRCC”) prior to bid opening.

Qualified subcontracting opportunities include the following areas: Site Work, Demolition, Masonry, Metals, Carpentry, Roofing, Finishes, Fire Suppression, Plumbing, Mechanical, and Electrical.

Interested businesses should contact Hal Klaus at: estimating@korteluitjohan.com or by phone 618-654-9877.

All negotiations must be complete prior to the bid opening on January 15, 2021 at 10:00 am. Proposals will be evaluated on the basis of lowest responsive bid received. All bids must be accompanied with proof of MBE/WBE/DBE certification.

METROPOLITAN ST. LOUIS SEWER DISTRICT

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District Requests for Quotes, Bids and Proposals are posted online for public download. Please navigate to www.msdprojectclear.org > Doing Business With Us > View Non-Capital Bids (commodities and services) or >Visit Planroom (capital construction bids)

St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

BID NOTICE

Please take notice that on November 17, 2020, the Circuit Court of St. Louis County, in Case No. 20SL-CC05483, appointed Hospitality Receivership Services, Inc. (111 Westport Plaza Dr., Suite 500, St. Louis, Missouri 63146) as the general receiver for Route 66 Hospitality, LLC (Registered Agent: SPRA Corp., 120 S. Central, Suite 1600, Clayton, Missouri 63105). Husch Blackwell LLP (190 Carondelet Plaza, Suite 600, St. Louis, Missouri 63105. Attn: Joseph P. Conran and Mohsen Pasha) seeks appointment to be counsel for Hospitality Receivership Services, Inc.

LETTING #8722

2020 Capital Main Replacement Program – New 20” Mains in Jefferson and Cass Ave.

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 January 5, 2021, 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.

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

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).

WE PUBLISH EVERY THURSDAY WE DISTRIBUTE IN ST. LOUIS COUNTY, ST. CHARLES COUNTY, ST. LOUIS CITY,AND PORTIONS OF ILLINOIS

St. LouiS american Bids & Public Notices St.

NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS

Paric Corporation is seeking proposals for the following project: MUHC Various Renovations –Renovate Areas in PCT and CCA for CHPS and CBCU in Columbia, MO.

This project includes demolition and renovation of approximately 11,500 sf of two areas within the hospital including work on the 1st floor of the PCT and the 2nd floor of the CCA.

The scope of work includes but is not limited to demolition, carpentry, casework, doors & hardware, drywall, acoustical ceilings, flooring, painting, specialties, fire sprinklers, plumbing, HVAC and electrical.

The owner has established diversity participation goals of 10% MBE, 10% combined WBE, DBE, Veteran, 3% SDVE.

Bids for this project are due on January 5, 2021, at 12:00 p.m. For any questions or would like to find out more detailed information on this opportunity, please contact Evan Chiles at 816-878-6003 or efwesley@paric.com.

All bids should be delivered to Paric via e-mail (bids@paric.com) or fax (816-878-6249).

PARIC CORPORATION IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

BID NOTICE

Great Rivers Greenway is soliciting electronic bids for the construction of Keiner Plaza Visitors Services and Maintenance Building. Go to www.greatriversgreenway. org/jobs-bids/ and submit by January 21, 2021.

CAPACITY BUILDING WORKSHOPS FOR NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS

The St. Louis Philanthropic Organization (SLPO) has partnered with Mosaic Beginnings to provide a series of capacity building workshops for nonprofit organizations. Upcoming workshops are Financial Management on January 13, 2021, and Program Evaluation on March 10, 2021, both beginning at 10:00 a.m.

The workshops are free to nonprofits, but advanced registration is required. Organizations may register for the workshops and find the 2021 Responsive Grants information via the SLPO website at www.stlphilanthropic.org

The SLPO provides funding and capacity building to nonprofit organizations whose programs and services advance the quality of life for St. Louis City Residents. Mosaic Beginnings is a management consulting firm with a diverse team of consultants with over 100 years of combined experience committed to increasing organizational capacity for organizations, helping them achieve and, often, exceed their goals.

INVITATION TO BID

OLIVE / LINDBERGH INTERCHANGE

The St. Louis Economic Development Partnership (SLEDP) is seeking proposals from qualified contractors for the Olive/Lindbergh Interchange Project. Bid documents can be obtained from www.drexeltech.com. Online correspondence to: mbrown@acceng.com , subject line to include ATTN: STP 4922(604) Olive / Lindbergh Interchange.

Sealed bid clearly marked “STP 4922(604) Olive / Lindbergh Interchange” will be received until 2:00 pm on January 12th, 2021 at the office of the St. Louis Economic Development Partnership, 7733 Forsyth Boulevard, Suite 2200, St. Louis, MO 63105. At that time, they will be opened and read aloud. A live-stream broadcast of the bid opening will be made available to all of those who wish to participate via request to mbrown@acceng.com

The Scope of Work includes the reconstruction of the Route 340 (Olive Blvd.) and Route 67 (Lindbergh Blvd.) interchange. Two new signals will be constructed along with sidewalks, lighting, bridge modifications and drainage improvements.

A pre-bid meeting will take place at 2:00 pm on January 5th, 2021. The pre-bid meeting will be held on-line. Anyone interested in participating is required to contact Mike Brown by email at mbrown@acceng.com. A link and directions for the live-stream web access will be provided. All labor used in the construction of this public improvement shall be paid a wage no less than the prevailing hourly rate of wages of work of a similar character in this locality as established by the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations (Federal Wage Rate), or state wage rate, whichever is higher.

The SLEDP hereby notifies all bidders that it will affirmatively ensure that in any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, businesses owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals will be afforded full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, religion, creed, sex, age, ancestry, or national origin in consideration for an award.”

All bidders must be on MoDOT’s Qualified Contractor List per Section 102.2 of the Missouri Standard Specifications for Highway Construction, 2019 Edition including all revisions. The contractor questionnaire must be on file 7 days prior to bid opening.

Contractors and sub-contractors who sign a contract to work on public works project provide a 10-Hour OSHA construction safety program, or similar program approved by the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations, to be completed by their on-site employees within sixty (60) days of beginning work on the construction project.

A certified or cashier’s check or a bid bond in the amount of 5% shall be submitted with each proposal.

The SLEDP reserves the right to reject any or all bids, in whole or in part, and to waive any irregularities with regard to the bidding process. If a contract is made, the project will be awarded to the lowest, responsive, responsible Bidder based on the sole determination of the SLEDP.

Specifications are also available for viewing or purchase at Cross Rhodes Reprographics located at 2731 S. Jefferson Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63118 or at www.stlmsdplanroom.com. All bidders must obtain a set of plans and specifications in order to submit a bid in the name of the entity submitting the bid.

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

The DBE Goal for this project is 14%

No 2nd tier subcontracting will be allowed on this project.

The SLEDP intends to issue a notice to proceed in the spring of 2021.

SEALED BIDS

B i d s f o r Replace Roofs and Renovate Interior, Project No. C1903-01 will be received b y F M D C , State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, January 19, 2021. For specific project i n f o r m a t i o n and ordering plans, go to: http://oa.mo. gov/facilities

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE:

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

METROPOLITAN ST. LOUIS SEWER DISTRICT ST. LOUIS MISSOURI LEMAY WWTF

SECONDARY BUILDING DRAIN LINE REPLACEMENT (IR) CONTRACT LETTING NO. 13462-015.1

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

Notice is hereby given that The Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District (District) will receive sealed bids for Lemay WWTF Secondary Building Drain Line Replacement (IR) under Letting No. 13462-015.1, at this office, 2350 Market Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63103, until 02:00 PM on January 21, 2021. Bids can be deposited in the bid box located on the First Floor of the District’s Headquarters located at 2350 Market Street, St. Louis, MO 63103, prior to the 2:00 p.m. bid deadline, or Bidders have the option to electronically submit their bid via email. Bidders shall A general description of the work to be done under these contract documents can be found in Section 01 11 35 SUMMARY OF PROJECT, of Part 5 – Specifications of the Bidding Documents.

The work to be done under these contract documents consists of:

· Removal and replacement of sanitary and roof drain piping, fittings and valves.

· Removal and replacement of pipe and structural support fasteners.

· Insulating of new piping.

Bids will be received only from companies that are pre-qualified by the District’s Engineering Department for: Building Contractors or Mechanical/Electrical/ Plumbing Contractors.

The Engineers Opinion of Probable Cost is $ 324,000.00.

Plans and Specifications are available for free electronic download. Please go to MSD’s website and look for a link to “ELECTRONIC PLANROOM.” Plans and Specifications are also available for viewing or purchase at Cross Rhodes Reprographics located at 1712 Macklind Avenue, St. Louis MO 63110. All bidders must obtain a set of plans and specifications in order to submit a bid in the name of the entity submitting the bid. The Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

A non-mandatory Pre-Bid conference will be held at this office, 2350 Market Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63103, on December 23, 2020, at 9:00 a.m., local time.

A site visit will be conducted following the pre-bid conference.

Continued from B1

League of Metropolitan St. Louis’ Serving Our Streets Initiative, which works toward fighting violent crime while focusing on community outreach and interaction with residents in high crime and poverty-stricken areas.

“I’m in the streets asking people what they need, whether it be rental assistance, mortgage assistance, food, childcare; anything that can help empower them or better their lives.” Shabazz said.

One might look at Shabazz’s accomplishments and be surprised that he’s only been doing radio for two years. However, the journey wasn’t swift. Or easy. Four years ago, Shabazz was working for the U.S. Postal Service, a job with which he was dissatisfied. In walking away from the 9-to-5 routine, he launched party promotions and hosting as a side gig.

“I was so infatuated with it that I kept trying to grow,” Shabazz said. “I started to get more comfortable with being on stage in front of people and interacting with them. I came into a new space where I was more confident in who I was and what I was doing.”

While he enjoyed the fun factor of pumping up the crowd and making people feel good, he had a burning passion to do more than host at hot clubs and venues. He wanted to leverage it into a lucrative career where he could make more money, then shift into servicing a different target audience.

After doing substantial research, Shabazz stumbled across careers in radio and applied for positions at local stations. Everyone rejected him. All that changed in July 2018, when he got the phone call that changed his life: Trumaine “DJ Tab” Barnett-Epps, owner of Streetz 105.1 radio station offered him the job of his dreams.

“There were numerous

things that stood out when it came to Dsmoovee, but the one thing that really stuck with me was his passion for the St. Louis community,” BarnettEpps said. “Anytime I spoke with Dsmoovee, he always spoke about bettering the community, the people, the kids and himself.”

Before his stint at Streetz 105.1, Dsmoovee was the sole caregiver for his mother until she died of breast cancer in June 2018. During that time, the mother of his child was also pregnant. He became caught up with mixed emotion that spiraled into depression causing him not to leave the house for six months. The baby’s mother named her Daya

Jackson. It was Daya, whose name means “compassion,” who was instrumental in pulling the now 28-year-old father out of depression. He credits the 2-year-old with guiding him to better days.

“I have to give credit to my daughter because that’s literally what woke me up in the midst of everything that was going on,” Shabazz said.

“I’m not going to stop because of a traumatic experience. I must keep going. My mother would want me to keep going because she would want me to be the best father and give my daughter a better life. That’s my motivation for change and giving her a better life.”

Continued from B1

women. If my buzz cut made me look more like a Black man, would the cops in our town treat me differently? In my dad’s eyes, my femininity increased my chances of making it home safely. His comments also led to a conversation about the intersection between racism and sexism. Without reading the crucial work of scholar Kimberlé Crenshaw and other activists, my father intuitively understood that society has placed Black women in a blind spot, where our gender and our race make us invisible in many ways. But that space isn’t safe, is it? A Eurocentric feminine hairstyle can’t protect Black women from the many deadly forms of racism.

Police officers can see us. Since 2015, at least 48 Black women have been killed by the police. I’m guessing the style of their hair didn’t matter to the officers pulling the triggers. In the past few years, the #SayHerName campaign

has put a spotlight on their killings, but society still pays less attention to the police killings of Black women. While most people have heard of George Floyd, Michael Brown and Breonna Taylor, fewer know about Kathryn Johnston, Korryn Gaines and India Kager. In death and life, our rights and our achievements don’t seem to hold as much weight compared with those of our male counterparts or our white ones. Yet, many Black women go to great lengths to be accepted in this country.

In the past few weeks, I’ve listened to other Black women in my life vent about their hair and navigating racism. We’ve shared our fears, hair horror stories and moments of victory. I’ve come to realize that my haircut wasn’t just about changing my style. It was also about reclaiming my crown after years of letting society control

Blessing

Continued from B1

with Grammy nominee Jarrett Johnson, Charles Ransom and Stephanie Holly. Montez Coleman, Peter Martin and Jahmal Nichols also lend their musical talents to the film.

Owens says he was able to complete the film with the help of so many others — particularly David Steward’s executive assistant Mary Unnerstall.

The film was Owens’ directorial debut. And he admitted that he was initially intimidated because of the pioneering success of David and Thelma Steward’s children within the film industry.

When the 2016 film “Manchester By The Sea” earned a “Best Picture” Academy Award nomination for Kimberly Steward, she was only the second African American woman producer to have a film nominated in the category. Oprah Winfrey was the other woman.

David Steward II’s Lion Forge Animation was among

the producers to take home

“Best Animated Short Film”

Oscar gold this year for the Matthew A. Cherry directed short “Hair Love.”

Lion Forge also provided animation for “A New Holiday.”

“To be entrusted with making this — I was humbled,” Owens said. “You have to understand, I have never made anything like this before, and yet they trusted me to do this.

He was thrilled with the outcome of the first major film project for Owens’ Life Creative Group.

For him, the film is also a testament to the caliber of talent and creative excellence that is tied to the region.

“We really can have our own industry,” Owens said.

“Sophia walked on set saying, ‘I came from L.A., back home to St. Louis to make a film.”

Through his Life Arts Ecosystem — which includes the for-profit Life Creative Group that offers production services and the non-profit Life Arts Inc. that offers training, mentorship and experience to budding artists — he hopes to see Stephens’ declaration

become the rule instead of the exception.

“With all of this talent that we have spread across the country and the world, I pray that we are able to provide opportunities for them to say, ‘I’m coming home to do a film,’” Owens said. He was also elated to have been able to offer PBS content from Black creatives that presents a universal narrative from the African American perspective.

“I think that is important,” Owens said.

“There is also the excitement in knowing that all of those who were involved will be able to say that they were a part of something that is going to serve as a true blessing for people during this season. To show that no matter what we are going through and dealing with right now, that the true meaning of Christmas is love shining from a baby in a manger — a baby who will grow up and become Savior.”

“A New Holiday” can be viewed on YouTube at www.

Youtube.com/BrianOwensSoul.

The Christmas musical ‘A New Holiday’ stars Sophia Stephens, Kennedy Holmes, Anita Jackson, Wynton Marsalis and newcomer Riley Adams. The film debuted on PBS’ Nine Network just ahead of Christmas and was filmed in St. Louis.

Dsmoovee Shabazz

Cara Anthony

Photo by Troy Anthony Swanson

A year of ups and downs, at the end of 2020, there is still hope

2020 is a year that’s going to be remembered forever for good things, and some not so good things. It was the year of the coronavirus pandemic, which struck in the spring and continued to hold on with a vengeance through the end of the year.

It was the year when President Donald Trump failed to win reelection, while steadfastly refusing to concede his defeat, in spite of rulings all the way up to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Among the brighter moments, scores of young people registered and turned out to vote — many for the first time. In part, those young people helped Cori Bush make history when she defeated long-time incumbent Congressman Lacy Clay and became the first Black woman to be elected to Congress in the state of Missouri. California Sen. Kamala Harris was

January

2 An urgent care facility’s name possibly being changed to Homer G. Phillips Hospital had many questioning the motive behind it. One of the people concerned with it was Dr. Earle U. Robinson Jr., who has strong ties to the history behind the name. His namesake father was part of the first group of interns at the hospital. Will Ross, RD, MPH, who is co-authoring on the hospital also shares concerns surrounding Paul McKee, developer of the facility’s plans.

2 The Missouri Supreme Court was presented the opportunity to make history in the case of Lamar Johnson. This was the first case to challenge a conviction based on an investigation by the Conviction Unit of the City of St. Louis Circuit Attorney’s Office. Johnson was convicted of murdering Marcus Boyd

another Black woman who made history, when former Vice President Joe Biden chose her as his running mate, before their ticket won in November, setting Harris up to be the first Black woman to serve as vice president of the United States of America.

This year will be remembered as the one in which Lyda Krewson decided one term as mayor of St. Louis was enough for her, leaving the door open for City Treasurer Tishaura Jones, Board of Aldermen President Lewis Reed and Alderman Cara Spencer of the 20th Ward and others to try to replace her.

Most of all 2020 will be remembered as the year when medical professionals, first responders and other essential workers put their lives on the line every day to serve and protect others, while a deadly disease raged around them.

on Oct. 30, 1994, however, evidence indicates that Johnson was at a friend’s house during the time of the crime.

2 St. Louis has the opportunity to lead the state of Missouri in a much-needed public health reform. Through a needle exchange program, sterile needles are offered to people who inject drugs.

9 St. Louis City Treasurer and now mayoral candidate Tishaura Jones felt that Mayor Lyda Krewson’s response to homicides in the city is ineffective because there is no solid plan set in place.

9 The felony diversion program run by St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner addresses mass incarceration and aims to decrease crime, but is met with resistance by judges in the 22nd Circuit Court.

16 The City of St. Louis budgeted $6.6

January 16 - Organizers of the Close the Workhouse campaign unveil their plan to decrease the inmate population in St. Louis jails and implement a two-year plan to close the Workhouse.

million for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund, the Equal Housing and Opportunity Council asked for $10 million.

16 Organizers of the Close the Workhouse campaign unveil their plan to decrease the inmate population in St. Louis jails and implement a two-year plan to close the Workhouse.

16 A documentary detailing the life of former Congressman Bruce Franks Jr., who represented the 78th District in the Missouri House of Representatives, earned an Academy Award nomination.

17 St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson raised civil service minimum wage to $15, intending to help the city fill dozens of vacant positions.

23 The Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis opened a community center on MLK Day. The center is used as a home base for the 2020 Census outreach efforts, employment resources, and resources for parents of Head Start children.

22 A resolution was made on MLK Day between the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, St. Louis County, and Wellston that allows the city to build new low-income housing units, restore some of the old buildings, and demolish about 15 units that are in the worst condition.

February

5 Mind’s Eye Radio serves the blind; it provides live sports, theatre, newspapers and magazines on radio.

5 The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services awarded 192 state medical marijuana dispensary licenses.

5 The St. Louis County Justice Center swore in nine women as correctional officers.

5 Concordance Academy of Leadership provides support to ex-inmates to celebrate their reentry into society.

5. St Louis’ own DJ Charlie Chan Soprano performed at the 62nd annual Grammy Awards alongside Run-DMC and Aerosmith.

6 The Covenant House Missouri offers homeless youth career services and shelter.

6 St. Louis County Executive Sam Page announced a minimum wage increase, saying workers will make at least $13 an hour ‘as soon as practicable,’ and $15 an hour by 2022.

13 CBC basketball standout Caleb Love was selected to play in the Nike Hoops Summit in Portland, Oregon.

27 The COVID-19 outbreak circulated around the world, but there weren’t any confirmed cases in Missouri.

March

5 Kristine Hendrix, president of the University City School District Board of Education was awarded $3,500 after she was tased three times by St. Louis police following a protest in 2015.

11 Joe Biden won the Democratic presidential preference primary in Missouri.

20 The COVID-19 outbreak was declared as a pandemic by the World Health Organization, positive results from the virus made its first Missouri appearance in St. Louis County.

20 St. Louis Public Schools and various charter schools in St. Louis worked in collaboration to provide free meals at 33 school sites due to school closures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

20 St. Louis prosecutors worked toward keeping new inmates from going to jails in St. Louis County and the City of St. Louis to prevent a potential COVID-19 outbreak, and tried to reduce current jail populations.

21 Judy Wilson-Griffin, an African American nurse at SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital was the first person in the St. Louis region to die from COVID19.

25 Jazzmond Dixon died from COVID19 at the age of 31, her death was the first novel coronavirus-related death in the City of St. Louis.

25 The St. Louis County Council approved $1.5 million in COVID-19 response funding to protect first responders, pay for testing costs for the uninsured and for medical supplies.

20 The St. Louis region began shutting down; St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson ordered that people could only gather in groups of 10 people or less, following an announcement of the city’s second posi-

tive case of the coronavirus.

April

1 Concerns rise for north St. Louis as CARESTL was poorly-supplied with personal protection equipment for coronavirus testing.

2 A team of local and national civil rights organizations asked the federal court to restrict St. Louis residents from being held in city jails due to not being able to afford to pay cash bail.

2 Cemeteries implemented changes to graveside services in response to COVID19.

2 With the COVID-19 pandemic, education has a new look for teachers and students; teachers are perceived as superheroes during the crises.

16 Milkayla Allen argued that the fight against COVID-19 could be met by expanding Medicaid in Missouri.

30 COVID-19 survivor Richelle Herron embarked on a career in nursing.

May

7 — St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson clears out a homeless tent city, including the city-provided restroom and hand washing stations, even as the city has a waiting list for shelter space.

7 — St. Louis County Police Officer

Preston Marquart is charged with involuntary manslaughter in the death of 12-year-old Akeelah “Kee Kee” Jackson.

7 — The federal government provides $1,200 stimulus checks to citizens amid the coronavirus pandemic.

14 — First reports following the start of the pandemic indicate Black people die from the disease at a disproportionate rate.

14 — St. Louis and St. Louis County lift the COVID-19 stay-at-home orders.

14 — Annie Malone May Day Parade goes virtual due to COVID-19.

21 — Marvia Gray sues the Des Peres Police Department after she says they brutalized her and her adult son when they were returning a TV to Sam’s Club on Manchester Road.

21 — The Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis distributes $1 million in free food, necessities and safety supplies since the onset of COVID-19.

21 — Missouri State Parks Department reopens campgrounds and beaches to the public after shutting down due to COVID19.

28 — Gov. Mike Parson places the Medicaid expansion initiative on the primary ballot.

June

4 — Ferguson elects Ella Jones as mayor, making her the first Black person

St. Louis Metropolitan Police have applied for warrants against Mark and Patricia McCloskey,in St. Louis on Tuesday July 14, 2020. The couple aimed guns at Black Lives Matter protesters after the group of about 300 came into their neighborhood in St. Louis on Sunday, June 28, 2020. The two have defended their actions by saying they felt their lives were being threatened.

and first woman to be elected to the office.

4 — Thousands of people in St. Louis march for days in protest of police brutality in the wake of George Floyd’s killing by a police officer in Minneapolis.

4 — Planned Parenthood’s abortion license is renewed after committee rules the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services wrongly withheld the organization’s license.

11 — The Muny cancels 2020 season due to the coronavirus pandemic, creating historic pause after more than a century of shows.

18 — Prosecutors drop charges against Ferguson activist Michael Avery, after they accused him of inciting a riot via Facebook posts.

18 — Florissant officer charged with felony assault and armed criminal action for striking man with an SUV.

18 — Former Pagedale mayor Mary L. Carter dies at age 82.

25 — An inmate at the St. Louis Workhouse tests positive for COVID-19.

25 — Ferguson’s first Black and first woman mayor, Ella Jones, is sworn at the Ferguson Empowerment Center.

25 — More than a dozen events hosted to celebrate Juneteenth, including “The People’s Rally” in downtown St. Louis.

Photo by Bill Greenblatt/UPI

July

2 — Community leaders and residents alike call for St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson’s resignation after she publicly reads the names and addresses of people calling on her to defund the police. The incident and subsequent reaction gained national attention.

2 — St. Louis County Executive Sam Page signs a memo of understanding with the Ethical Society of Police recognizing the organization as a local employee association.

2 — St. Louis rapper Huey is shot and killed in Kinloch, in St. Louis County, at the age of 31.

9 — Expect Us organizes a protest against police brutality in front of the Florissant Police Department, where 17 protestors were arrested, the majority of the group was maced and several people were injured.

16 — The Keep Kids in Class Coalition holds a march to demand that resource officers are removed from schools.

23 — U.S. Rep John Lewis of Georgia dies at the age of 80 after battling pancreatic cancer.

23 — St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kimberly Gardner charges Mark and Patricia McCloskey after they confront peaceful protesters on their private residential street in the Central West End.

23 — The St. Louis Board of Aldermen voted unanimously to pass a bill that would close the Workhouse by the end of the year.

30 — Urban League and Grace Hill come together in a historic merger, creating a powerhouse social services agency and extending Head Start’s federal contract for five more years.

30 — Two local nonprofits are chosen to operate two new Cure Violence locations in the Walnut Park neighborhood and Dutchtown.

August

6 — Progressive candidate and pastor Cori Bush unseats 10-term incumbent U.S. Rep. William Lacy Clay, whose family has held the District 1 House seat since the 1960s, in the Democratic primary.

6 — Wesley Bell announces he will not file charges against former Ferguson Officer Darren Wilson in the shooting death of Michael Brown.

6— Police, using the kettling tactic, arrest 17 people in St. Charles during a march to honor the life of U.S. Rep John Lewis.

6— Missouri voters pass Amendment 2, which expands Medicaid health coverage to nearly a quarter-million people in the state.

13 — Joe Biden selects U.S. Sen. Kamala Harris of California to be his vice presidential running mate.

13 — Community members and activists gather in remembrance of Michael Brown in Ferguson on the sixth anniversary of his death.

13 — St. Louis receives an infusion of federal law enforcement resources, including 50 federal investigators from the Department of Homeland Security and $1 million from the Bureau of Justice to help combat violent crimes.

20 — Researchers at SLU begin enrolling participants for a coronavirus vaccine trial study, but struggle to enroll Black people, who are disproportionately affected by the pandemic.

27 — A settlement in a federal class action lawsuit is announced by The American Civil Liberties Union of Missouri ensuring that people who are incarcerated in Missouri prisons will receive Hepatitis-C treatment and education.

27 — Bishop Edward K. Braxton retires after 15 years of service as the bishop of

the Catholic Diocese of Belleville.

27 — Missouri attorney general releases a report showing — for the 19th year in a row — that Black motorists in Missouri are far more likely to be stopped and searched than White motorists.

SEPTEMBER

1 — Dr. Jovita Oruwari, an oncologic breast cancer surgeon, seeks to change the standard of care for women of color who have breast cancer.

3 — Darrion Cockrell and Clarence Hines are two of seven finalists to be recognized as the 2021 Missouri Teacher of the Year.

3 — Gregory F.X. Daly, St. Louis Collector of Revenue, paid the daughter of his chief of staff, Tom Vollmer $250,000 for legal fees with no bit or contract. Daly defended his actions saying nepotism concerns only relatives of elected officials, not relatives of employees.

10 — North St.. Louis could lose millions in census undercount. The Center for Urban Research’s Census 2020 Had to Count map showed a less than 30 percent response rate to the U.S. Census in large swaths of north St. Louis.

OCTOBER

8 — Mark and Patrical McCloskey will be arraigned on Wednesday, Oct. 14, after being indicted by a St. Louis grand jury on a charge of exhibiting a weapon and tampering with evidence.

15 — Yvonne Cookse joined the Regional Arts Commission of St.Louis as president and CEO. The RAC is the largest public funder of the arts in the region.

15 — Steven Player will take on the newly established role of vice president of diversity, equity and inclusion for BJC HealthCare on Nov. 1. The role was established to advance BJC’s mission to provide equitable, culturally aware care for all patients and ensure a culturally competent workforce.

15 — An estimated 6.5%, or 95,000 Missouri children were uninsured last year, according to a report released by the Georgetown University Center for Children and Families. That number has increased by more than one-third since 2016.

22 — A report released by Forward Through Ferguson details the resurgence of segregation in St. Louis-area public schools, and outlines key room causes of the student achievement gap.

29 — As promised, St. Louis County Executive Dr. Sam Page vetoed two bills on Monday, Oct. 26, that the County

Photo by Wiley Price St. Louis American

Det. Tracy Cole a 14-year veteran with the St. Louis Police Department stands at the memorial for fallen police officer Tamarris Bohannon at the Police Officers Association in south St. Louis Wed. Sept. 2, 2020.

Council passed last week by a 4-3 vote.

29 — The Arts and Education Council awarded 13 organizations a total of $115,000 in funding through the Arts and Healing Initiative, in partnership with the Missouri Foundation for Health The program is aided at increasing the capacity to heal through the arts.

NOVEMBER

5 — Cori Bush makes history as she becomes the first Black woman in Missouri to be elected to Congress. In her acceptance speech she gave a special shout out to the Ferguson frontliners.

5 —The presidential election is too close to call. While voters in Missouri stood

with President Donald Trump, a few key states were still counting ballots late into Election Night and a few days beyond.

5 — A 10-year study across eight U.S. jurisdictions, including St. Louis, shows misdemeanor arrests decline while racial disparities persist.

5 — Sgt. Donnell Walters is named president of the Ethical Society of Police. Founded in 1972, the Society is an association of more than 300 police officers, park rangers and civilians that advocates for racial and gender equity in law enforcement.

5 — Phone calls from families on the very day of losing their homes have jumped 300% at Catholic Charities of Southern Missouri. Advocates fear dire conse-

quences when a moratorium on evictions expires.

5 — The St. Louis Metropolitan Pandemic Task Force and St. Louis County Executive Sam Page have called for everyone to get on board with simpler measures to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus.

12 — When Joe Biden and Kamala Harris were declared victors in Pennsylvania on Nov. 7, the state’s 20 electoral votes guaranteed them victory in the 202 race for president and vice president. Harris will become the first African American and first woman elected vice president — if the incumbent concedes.

DECEMBER

3 — Approximately 11 St. Louis public schools should be closed for good, according to a recommendation from Superintendent Kelvin Adams. On that list is Charles H. Sumner High School in the Ville neighborhood of north St. Louis.

3 — Jennings schools superintendent announces his retirement. In a letter to the Jennings School District, Board of Education and community, Art McCoy wrote that it had been his honor to serve “the best, wisest and multiple award-winning JSD Board of Education.

3 — Black officiating crew made history in the NFL. The crew, Jerobe Borger, Barry Anderson, Anthony Jeffries, Julian Mapp, Carl Johnson, Dale Shaw and Greg Steed made the all the call in the gabe between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Los Angeles Rams on Nov. 23.

3 — Former Belleville bishop Wilton Gregory became the first Black American cardinal after Pope Francis chose him as one of 13 bishops and priests elevated to the College of Cardinals at the Vatican.

10 — With a new $55 million pledge, the St. Louis-based Enterprise Holdings foundation joins business and philanthropic organizations around the nations in responding to calls for racial and social equity in the wake of the killing of George Floyd

10 — President-elect Joe Biden selects retired Army Gen. Lloyd Austin to be his secretary of Defense. If confirmed by the U.S. Senate, Lloyd would be the first Black man to lead the Department of Defense.

17 — The St. Louis Public Schools Board postpones a vote on whether to close 11 schools next year. The Board followed the recommendation of Superintendent Kelvin Adams to wait 30 days for additional feedback and brainstorming.

17 — It’s been five months since the St. Louis Board of Aldermen unanimously passed a bill to close the Workhouse by the end of the year, yet what will happen come Jan. 1 at the jail remains unclear.

Cori Bush defeated longtime Rep. William Lacy Clay Tuesday Nov. 3, 2020 in Missouri’s Democratic primary, ending a political dynasty that has spanned more than 50 years. Bush’s victory came in a rematch of 2018.

Photo by Wiley Price St. Louis American

In Memoriam 2020

January

1

– Nick Gordon, the controversial partner of the late Bobbi Christina Brown, dies at age 30 in Florida, reportedly following an apparent drug overdose on New Year’s Eve.

2

– Anita Banks, widow of the late state Sen. J.B. “Jet” Banks, dies at age 95 in St. Louis.

13 – St. Louis urban radio traffic reporter Tony Johnson, known as “Tony J” dies at age 49 from brain cancer. The comedian, actor, on-air talent and creator of the Traffic Music Awards worked on Q95.5, Hot 104.FM and 99.5 FM.

23 – Ernest Jones, former executive deputy superintendent of St. Louis Public Schools and retired superintendent of Normandy School District, dies at age 90.

group won five Grammys and earned nominations for 19 songs. The internationally renowned acapella group used its music to unite South Africans during apartheid.

14 – “Boyz in the Hood” film and TV actress Esther Scott dies of a heart attack at age 66 in Santa Monica, California.

15 – Actress Nikita Pearl Waligwa, who portrayed Gloria while starring in the Disney biography, “Queen of Katwe,” dies at age 15 from a brain tumor in near Kampala, Uganda.

26 – NBA basketball great Kobe Bryant, age 41 and daughter, 13-yearold Gianna Bryant, are among nine people killed in his helicopter crash in Calabasas, California.

28 – “Funkin’ for Jamaica” lead singer and co-songwriter Toni Smith (Thomassina Carrollyne Smith) dies at age 59 of causes unknown in New York.

28 – NFL Hall of Fame Minnesota Vikings defensive end Chris Doleman dies of brain cancer at age 58. During his career, Doleman also played with the Atlanta Falcons and the San Francisco 49ers.

February

Minister Hosni Mubarak dies at age 91 in Egypt. He was ousted from office following 18 days of demonstrations during the 2011 Egyptian revolution.

March

5 – Singer Barbara Martin, the fourth and early member of The Supremes when they signed with Motown Records, dies in Detroit at age 76. She was a member of the famed group from 1960 to 1962.

6 – Jazz pianist and composer McCoy Tyner dies at age 81 at his home in New Jersey. He was the last surviving member of the momentous John Coltrane Quartet.

17 – 1970s sitcom “Good Times”actress Ja’net Dubois dies in her sleep of cardiac arrest at her home in Glendale, California at age 87.

19 – Bashar Barakah Jackson, rapper Pop Smoke, dies at the hands of a masked gunman during a home invasion in Los Angeles. He was 20 years old.

22 – Restauranteur, author and 70s model and style icon B. Smith (Barbara Elaine Smith) dies at age 70 of early onset Alzheimer’s disease in home in Long Island, New York.

24 – NASA mathematician Katherine Johnson dies at age 101 in Newport News, Virginia. Her calculations helped the spacecraft Apollo 11 land on the moon. She and other black female NASA mathematicians were portrayed in the 2016 movie “Hidden Figures.” Johnson was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Congressional Gold Medal for her service.

3 – NFL five time champion and Hall of Famer, Green Bay Packers defensive back Willie Wood who made the first Super Bowl interception, dies in Washington after suffering with advanced dementia for several years at age 83.

10 – Ladysmith Black Mambazo founder Joseph Shabalala dies at age 78 in South Africa. The

25 – St. Louis Alderman Samuel L. Moore dies at age 71. He served the Ville neighborhood’s 4th Ward since 2007, and was instrumental to St. Louis getting to host the COGIC Holy Convocation for 10 years, which brought in $43 million in revenue for the city.

25 – Egypt’s former Prime

30 – Soul singer Bill Withers dies at age 81 from heart complications in Los Angeles. The songwriter and baritone had many hits, including “Just The Two of Us,” Lovely Day,” “Use Me,” “Ain’t No Sunshine,” and Grandma’s Hands.”

April

1 – Jazz pianist and music teacher Ellis Marsalis Jr. dies of COVID-19 at age 85 in New Orleans. He was father of jazz greats Wynton and Bradford Marsalis.

29 – Former St. Louis NAACP President and STL Police Commissioner Col. Charles Edward Mischeaux Jr. dies at age 84 in Ft. Myers, Florida.

28 – R&B rock-and-roller Bobby Lewis, who sang the 60s hit “Tossin’ and Turning” dies of pneumonia at age 95 in Newark, New Jersey. Lewis’ 1961 hit spent seven weeks at No.1 on Billboard’s Hot 100 and sold over 3 million copies.

May

13 – Louisville, Kentucky, police busted in and shot and killed 26 year old Breonna Taylor as she slept in her apartment in an exchange of gunfire from her boyfriend. The man they were looking for did not live at the residence. Her death and others would prompt months of protests against police killing of unarmed black people and calls for racial justice.

20 – SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital perinatal nurse Judy Wilson-Griffin becomes the first person in St. Louis County to die of COVID-19. She was 63.

22 – Jazzmond “Jazz Dixon becomes the first person in the city of St. Louis to die from COVID-19. The biomedical services employee for the American Red Cross Blood Center was age 31.

22 – Attorney Larry L. Deskins, the first African American partner in a major law firm in St. Louis dies at age 68 after a long illness.

4 – M*A*S*H actor and former NFL football player Timothy Brown dies of dementia complications at age 82 in Palm Springs, California. Brown played for the Green Bay Packers, the Philadelphia Eagles and the Baltimore Colts.

6 – Founder of Black Enterprise magazine, Earl G. Graves Sr., dies at age 85 from Alzheimer’s in White Plains, New York. In addition to the media company focusing on black businesses and entrepreneurship, Graves also served as CEO of Pepsi Cola between 1990-1998.

9 – Rev. Carl S. Smith, pastor at New Beginning Missionary Baptist Church, vice president of the St. Louis Metropolitan Clergy Coation, and a former St. Louis police officer, dies at age 64 of COVID-19 in St. Louis.

9 – Retired St. Louis Police Colonel Gregory Hawkins dies from COVID-19 at age 71 in St. Louis.

26 – Harlem Globetrotters great Fred “Curly” Neal dies at age 77 in his home in the Houston area. He entertained millions as a Globetrotter from 1963 to 1985, appeared on numerous TV shows and served as an “Ambassador of Goodwill.”

27 –“Dean of the Civil Rights Movement,” Rev. Joseph Echols Lowery, dies at his home in Atlanta at age 98. Lowery cofounded the Southern Christian Leadership Conference with Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.

27 – St. Louis 18th Ward Committeewoman Ellen Todd dies at age 35 in St. Louis.

10 – St. Louis blues performer and elder statesman “Big” George Brock passes at age 87.

12 – U.S. Eastern District senior Judge Charles Shaw of St. Louis dies at age 75. Known for not being afraid to challenge injustice, Shaw previously served as a state circuit judge in St. Louis, assistant U.S. attorney, and as an attorney for the National Labor Relations Board.

19 – International fashion photographer and hair and makeup artist Ernest Collins dies of heart failure at age 67 at his home in Chicago.

22 – St. Louis radio personality Randy “O’Jay” Brooks dies at age 61. Brooks worked for KATZ, Majic 108 FM and most recently, 99.5 FM.

7 – Hip-Hop music executive, Vice Chairman of Revolt network, former Motown president/ CEO and Uptown Records founder, Andre Harrell dies from heart failure at age 59 in West Hollywood, California. As a rapper, Harrell was Dr. Jeckyll of the duo Dr. Jeckyll & Mr. Hyde with Alonzo Brown.

9 – The architect of Rock and Roll, Hall of Famer and never duplicator, Richard Wayne “Little Richard” Penniman, dies of bone cancer at age 87 in Tullahoma, Tennessee.

10 – Iconic soul and R&B singer, songwriter and producer Betty Wright dies of cancer at age 66 in Miami. She wrote “The Clean Up Woman”,” “Tonight Is The Night,” “No Pain, No Gain: and “Where is the Love,” which earned a 1975 Grammy for best R&B

15 – Co-founder and producing artistic director of the Unity Theatre Ensemble, Ralph Greene, dies of stomach cancer at age 78.

16 – Former White House butler to 11 presidents, Wilson Roosevelt Jerman, dies of COVID-19 at age 91. Jerman worked at the White house from 1957 until he retired in 2012.

25 – The nation and world are horrified as an unarmed, handcuffed black man, 46-yearold George Floyd, has his life squeezed out of him on live video by a knee on his neck for several minutes by white Minneapolis Police Officer Derek Michael Chauvin, sparking nationwide protests and unrest.

25 – Otis A. Jackson, former INROADS executive and St. Louis area math educator, dies of COVID-19 at age 80.

June

2 – Retired Moline Acres Police Chief and St. Louis Metro Police Captain David Dorn, 77, is shot

Katherine Johnson

Kobe Bryaant Little Richard

Tony J

and killed while responding to a burglary alarm at Lee’s Pawn and Jewelry in St. Louis during a night of unrest.

3 – Longtime Pagedale, Mo. Mayor Mary L. Carter dies at age 82 after 27 years in office. Her handpicked successor, Rev. E. G. Shields Sr., was elected as Pagedale mayor the day before she died.

3 – Writer, educator, black activist, Chicago’s Conrad Worrill, founding leader of the National Black United Front, dies at age 78. Worrill promoted African independence and self-determination in the U.S. and internationally.

8 – Grammy-winning Motown artist Bonnie Pointer, who went solo after leaving The Pointer Sisters, dies of cardiac arrest at age 69 in Los Angeles. She is known for her 70s cover of “Heaven Must Have Sent You.” Group hits include “Yes We Can,” “Fire,” “Slow Hand,” and “I’m So Excited.”

25 – St. Louis rapper Lawrence “Huey” Franks Jr. dies in a double shooting in Kinloch, Mo. He was 31. His 2006 single, “Drop, Lock & Pop It” soared up the Billboard charts.

28 – Educator and community leader Theresa E. Bolden, who for 38 years served as a supervisor for women of the Eastern Missouri Jurdisdiction of the Church of God in Christ, dies at age 103 in St. Louis.

July

13 – Diplomat and poet Zindzi Mandela, daughter of the late South African president Nelson Mandela and anti-apartheid leader Winnie Mandela, dies at age 59 in Johannesburg, South Africa. She tested positive for COVID-19 on the day she died.

16 – Ola Mae Spinks, a retired school librarian in Pontiac, Michigan schools who helped to organize the historic “Slave Narratives” in the U.S. Library of Congress, dies at a senior living center in Southfield, Michigan at age 106.

17 – Rev. Cordy Tindell “C. T.” Vivian, Civil Rights hero, lieutenant to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., former national director of affiliates for the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and 2013 Presidential Medal of Freedom honoree by Pres. Barack Obama, dies at age 95 in Atlanta.

17 – Civil Rights hero U.S. Rep. John R. Lewis, dies at age 80 from pancreatic cancer. Lewis, a colleague of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., participated in lunch counter sit-ins, joined the Freedom Riders in challenging segregated buses, marched and fought for voting rights, and was a 23-year old keynote speaker at the 1963 March on Washington.

19 – Presiding Prelate Bishop Alphonso Scott of Lively Stone Church of God Fellowship dies at age 83 in his home in Ferguson.

29 – Malik Abdul “Malik B ” Basit, founding member of The Roots, dies at age 47, no cause of death released.

T’Challa” in Black Panther will not be recast.

29 – Clifford Robinson, the 6’10” UConn Huskies collegiate and an NBA All-Star who played for the Portland Trail Blazers, the Phoenix Suns, the Detroit Pistons and the Golden State Warriors, dies of lymphoma at age 53 at his home in Portland, Oregon.

30 – Iconic Georgetown men’s basketball coach John Thompson dies at his home in Arlington, Virginia. at age 78. In 1984, he became the first Black coach to win the national championship.

September

26 – Mimi Jones, a Civil Rights activist in an historic 1964 St. Augustine Florida swim-in at a segregated pool at the Monson Motor Lodge, dies at age 73 in at her home in Boston. A white hotel operator responed by pouring acid in the pool. She and five others were arrested. The swim-in was seen as one of the actions widely credited with the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1964.

6 – St. Louis Cardinals baseball great, base -stealing Hall of Famer Lou Brock, dies at age 81 in St. Louis. He had multiple illnesses in recent years.

6 – Bruce Williamson, former lead singer of The Temptations, dies of COVID-19 at age 49.

9 – Ronald “Khalis” Bell, singer, songwriter, saxophonist and a founding member of Kool and the Gang, dies at age 68 at his home in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

30 – Former 2012 GOP presidential candidate and former C.E.O. of Godfather’s Pizza, Herman Cain dies of COVID-19 after attending an indoor Donald Trump campaign rally in Tulsa, Oklahoma while not wearing a mask or social distancing.

August

16 – The first African American U.S. postmaster in Godfrey Illinois and in St. Charles, Vitilas “Veto” Reid dies at age 91 in St. Louis.

11 – Actor Raymond G. Allen Sr., best known as tipsy character Uncle Woody from “Sanford and Son,” dies at age 91 in California.

12 – Community health leader and nurse Betty Jean Kerr, of People’s Health Centers, dies at age 82 in St. Louis. The health centers she helped build were renamed in her honor in 2007 after her retirement.

12 – “Want Ads” vocalist Edna Wright, lead singer of the 70s group Honey Cone, dies of a heart attack at age 75.

of the Marvelettes, dies of cardiac arrest at age 78.

18 – Liberal U. S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg dies at age 87 from pancreatic cancer. She was a longtime legal champion of gender equality.

18 – Grammy-winning singer Pamela Hutchison of the Chicago iconic sister soul/R&B trio, The Emotions, dies at age 61 after years of health challenges. Their 1977 song “The Best of My Love,” won a Grammy for Best R&B performance by a duo or group with vocals.

23 – Former NFL Hall of Fame running back Gale Sayers of the Chicago Bears died from Alzheimer’s at age 77 in Wakarusa, Indiana.

October

2 – Legendary former St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Bob Gibson dies at age 84 from pancreatic cancer in Omaha, Nebraska.

November

2 – Broadway actor and singer Lawrence Clayton, who starred in “The Color Purple” and “Dreamgirls,” dies of cancer at age 64.

6 – Public health nurse and administrator Richelle Annette Simmons Clark dies at age 70 in St. Louis.

8 – Longtime Jeopardy! Host Alex Trebek dies of pancreatic cancer at age 80

8 – BET star and “Let’s Stay Together” and “Pitch”actor Bert Balasco, found dead at age 38 in a Virginia hotel room where he was quarantining in preparation for an upcoming moving role.

16 – Master Chef Jr. contestant Ben Watkins, dies at age 14 from a rare cancer.

3 – Tony nominated stage and film actor Thomas Jefferson Byrd is found shot to death at age 70 in Atlanta. Byrd starred in several Spike Lee films, including “He Got Game,” “Get on the Bus” and “Clockers.”

6 – “I Can See Clearly Now” singer-songwriter Johnny Nash dies at age 80 at his home in Houston.

23 – Civil Rights activist and Selma attorney Bruce Boynton, who inspired the Freedom Rides, dies of cancer at age 83 in Montgomery, Alabama.

10 – Lucille Bridges, the mother who made the historic walk with her 6-year-old daughter Ruby Bridges into a segregated New Orleans public school, which is memorialized in a Norman Rockwell painting, dies at age 86 in New Orleans.

24 – New York City’s first Black Mayor David Dinkins dies of natural causes at age 93 at his home in NYC.

December

2 – 1960 Olympic decathon champion Rafer Johnson dies at age 86 at his home in Sherman Oaks, California.

7 – Film and television actress Natalie Deselle-Reid dies at age 53 of colon cancer. She was known for her roles in “B*A*P*S,” “Madea’s Big Happy Family,” “Set It Off” and the sitcom “Eve.”

21 – St. Louis singer Lamont Hadley Sr. dies from COVID19 at age 53. Hadley was best known as a member of the group Master’s Touch.

28 – “Black Panther”star Chadwick Boseman dies at age 43, following a four-year private battle with colon cancer. His other movies include “21 Bridges,” “Marshall,” “Da 5 Bloods,” and “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom.” Marvel Studios later announced his role as “King

15 – Retired Anheuser -Busch executive, attorney, Civil Rights activist and St. Louis Alderman, Wayman F. Smith III, dies at age 80 in St. Louis.

18 – William H. Danforth, M.D., chancellor emeritus and trustee emeritus of Washington University, dies at age 94 at his home in Ladue, Mo.

18 – Georgia Dobbins, cowriter of “Please Mr. Postman,” Motown’s first No. 1 hit as part

12 – St. Louis soulful singer and entertainer Kim Massie dies at age 62, after a number of health issues. Her voice filled blues clubs and area concert venues for decades.

31 – Grammy-nominated Gospel music legend and minister, Bishop Rance Allen dies at age 71.He is known for the hit, “Something About the Name Jesus,” and with gospel group with his brothers, The Rance Allen Group.

31 – “James Bond” actor Sean Connery dies at age 90 from heart failure due to pneumonia and old age at his home in the Bahamas.

12 – Country superstar Charley Pride, the first African American member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, dies at age 86 from COVID-19.

12 – Actress Carol Sutton, featured in “Queen Sugar” and “Steel Magnolias,” dies at age 76 from COVID-19.

11 – Tommy “Tiny” Lister, who played “Deebo” in the “Friday” movies, dies at age 62. After having COVID-19 a few months ago, his family said Lister had been experiencing COVID symptoms again in the days before his death.

“Huey” Franks

Lou Brock

Chadwick Boseman

Theresa Bolden

Kim Massie

St. Louis Children’s Hospital: Raising St. Louis

BUILDING HEALTHIER COMMUNITIES IN CHALLENGING TIMES

St. Louis Children’s Hospital’s Child Health Advocacy and Outreach programs are offering services during COVID-19 to ensure we do what’s right for children and their families every day. The hospital is not only a world-class choice for parents looking to deliver or heal their sick babies, it invests in children’s lives away from the hospital. The Raising St. Louis program is one of the ways in which the hospital extends its reach into the community, with nearly 200 families currently enrolled.

Raising St. Louis is here for families during the pandemic. It connects with mothers, fathers and other family members to help build and sustain the family unit, reduces the high infant mortality rate, promotes literacy and increases access to health care. Families receive resources to help navigate the new way of living during COVID-19.

Any woman or family who lives within an identified 22 zip code area in St. Louis City and North County and is pregnant, or has a child up to age 4, is eligible to participate, at zero cost to the participant. To stay connected, services are provided virtually through Zoom and Facebook Live events.

To learn more about how Raising St. Louis can help your child get the best start to a healthy and full life, visit our website at StLouisChildrens.org and the Raising St. Louis Facebook page. Families can enroll in Raising St. Louis by calling 314.747.RSTL or 314.362.9586

Child Health Advocacy and Outreach programs are made possible by generous donations to St. Louis Children’s Hospital Foundation.

CS_581970_12/20