February 6th, 2014 Edition

Kelvin Westbrook, president and CEO of the consulting firm KRW Advisors, is the first AfricanAmerican or minority to chair BJC HealthCare’s Board of Trustees.

BJC appoints first black board chair

By Rebecca Rivas Of The St. Louis American

Clearing the path

Darren Brewster cleared snow off residential sidewalks near Bell and North Theresa avenues yesterday morning after snow blanketed the region on Tuesday, resulting in widespread school closings and cancellations of meetings and events.

Sebelius pushes for Medicaid expansion

Health and Human Services secretary says state loses $5M per day

By Sandra Jordan Of The St. Louis American

brief visit to the Grace Hill Health Center Water Tower site in North St. Louis on Friday.

n “But to put it in very practical terms, every day Missouri loses $5 million of federal funding.”

– U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius

“About 16 percent of Missourians are uninsured and eligible for health care with the new law – about 800,000 folks,” Sebelius said. In the St. Louis city region, she said, there are about

227,000 eligible residents – and 94 percent of those people are eligible for financial assistance.

“That comes with a small caveat,” she said –namely, Medicaid expansion in Missouri.

“Governor Nixon has supported Medicaid expansion. So far, the Missouri Legislature hasn’t moved,” Sebelius said.

“But to put it in very practical terms, every day Missouri loses $5 million of federal funding. That’s how much money would come into the

MCU warns of ‘educational ghetto’ Metropolitan

Congregations United criticizes plan for troubled districts

By Dale Singer

chairs the group’s education task force, said that the conclusions and recommendations of the CEETrust plan are not supported by the evidence.

“Their reforms are not backed by credible

by

U.S. Health and Human

Secretary

Services

Kathleen Sebelius

Photo by Wiley Price

Photo

Wiley Price

DMX and George Zimmerman to square off in the ring

Rapper DMX has reportedly been named George Zimmerman’s opponent in his upcoming celebrity boxing match.

TMZ says celebrity boxing promoter Damon Feldman told them that DMX was selected out of 15,000 applicants … all of whom wanted a piece of Zimmerman in the ring after he issued the open challenge to fight anyone willing to take him.

DMX told the celebrity news and gossip site that he was going to slaughter Zimmerman in the ring

Chris Brown beats jail time at latest hearing

Chris Brown will stay in anger management rehab, despite a prosecutor’s attempt Monday to send him to jail.

Superior Court Judge James R. Brandlin turned down the prosecution’s motion on Monday, citing the singer’s continued good behavior and progress in his rehabilitation program.

Brandlin said probation officials reported that Brown is doing well in treatment and must remain in the program unless he is given permission by the court or his probation officer.

“I am going to beat the living [f-word expletive] out him … I am breaking every rule in boxing to make sure I f-word expletive] him right up.”

The boxing match will reportedly last 3 rounds.

TMZ says the date, time, and location of the fight will be announced at a news conference next Wednesday.

Brown was sentenced to three months of in-patient rehab in November after he was arrested and charged with misdemeanor assault over an altercation several weeks earlier in Washington D.C.

A prosecutor sought to have Brown thrown in jail during Monday’s hearing and called for a full probation violation hearing, which would have resulted in evidence about the D.C. case being presented

to Brandlin. Los Angeles Deputy District Attorney Mary Murray cited the new case as the basis for removing Brown from rehab and placing him in custody. Brown remains on probation for his 2009 attack on his thengirlfriend Rihanna hours before the GRAMMY Awards.

Brandlin ordered Brown to return to court on Feb. 28 to update him on his progress. He said the singer had already completed 191 of 1,000 hours of community labor that were ordered after Brandlin found Brown violated his probation after failing to exchange information properly after a car crash last year. He said probation officials reported that Brown “appears to have a more serious and responsible demeanor” since checking into rehab.

Keyshia and Boobie call it quits?

So much for “Sent from Heaven…”

According to the singer’s Twitter account Keyshia is giving up on her marriage to NBA baller Daniel “Boobie” She and estranged husband

Gibson have been pretty quiet about their marital status lately, but Cole couldn’t hold her peace Tuesday night when she made thinly veiled vents on twitter.

“You have to GO. Take your [expletive] back to H-Town. You can have him boo,” Cole tweeted. Gibson is a native of Houston. She then followed up he remarks with a cryptic tweet that simply stated “shame.”

T.I. side baby the root of marital problems with Tiny?

According to famed Atlanta blogger Funky Dineva, the recent rumors that T.I. and Tiny’s marriage have been on the rocks because of a fresh side baby.

“The truth of the matter is the crux of T.I. & Tiny’s recent issues stem from the baby T.I. has fathered outside of their marriage,” Dineva said. “Those closest to T.I. & Tiny are keeping it cute, but the Atlanta streets and big mouth members of T.I. & Tiny’s camp are talking. I’m told the baby is definitely less than a year old. So there it is.”

EPA test results leak out

New report deepens activist concerns over Bridgeton landfill fire

By Rebecca Rivas Of The St. Louis American

On Jan. 8 the EPA Region 7 “quietly” released results from its tests for radioactive material at the West Lake/Bridgeton landfill, west of Interstate 270 on St. Charles Rock Road.

The Missouri Coalition for the Environment advocacy group has been urging the EPA to be more transparent regarding the agency’s plan to build a landfill “isolation barrier,” which is intended to keep a smoldering underground fire from contacting the radioactive wastes illegally dumped at the West Lake landfill in 1973, said Ed Smith, safe energy director for the coalition.

In December 2010, an underground fire was detected in the “north quarry” of the inactive 52-acre Bridgeton Landfill – only 1,000 feet from where the wastes from 1940s atomic bomb production are buried.

The EPA conducted a Gamma Cone Penetration Test (GCPT) as part of a work plan for the isolation barrier. Smith said the coalition was disappointed that it only learned about the results on Jan. 27, when the report was posted to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources website.

The results show that the radioactive waste is “hotter” in certain areas than expected, he said.

Robert Criss, professor of Earth & planetary science at Washington University, said the results show that the contamination has been spreading and diffusing through groundwater and other mechanisms. These contaminants don’t tend to stay in the same place over long periods of time, he said. Criss believes that the contamination is widespread and the EPA has been reluctant to require testing farther away from the site. Criss also criticized the EPA’s recent testing procedure and measurements, saying the agency should have “established background” by testing the soil away from the contaminated site.

“It’s an absurd dodge,” Criss said. “That is scientifically unacceptable.”

The test results show that the radioactive material exists in places the EPA didn’t expect, Smith said.

“The Gamma Cone Penetration Tests really show that the EPA didn’t have a great understanding of the extent of the radioactive material when it made its decision to leave it there and cap it forever,” Smith said. “It goes to show why the Army Corps of Engineers needs to be put in charge.”

For decades, the coalition has been advocating for the federal government to remove the radioactive waste, which is located in the river floodplain. Smith said the removal of the radioactive wastes is the “only guaranteed plan” to ensure the subsurface landfill fire will not hit the nuclear waste, now or in the future.

Smith said residents near the landfill should voice their concerns about breathing in odors coming from it. In the last few years, residents and environmental activists have complained about an awful odor and raised questions about health concerns. The Missouri Department of Natural Resources conducted air tests and found that the fire was letting off harmful gases. The air testing showed increased levels of benzene, a known carcinogen, and hydrogen sulfide, a neurotoxin.

In May, Attorney General Chris Koster negotiated a legal order with Republic Services, “requiring the company to take a series of steps to contain and control odorous gases at the Bridgeton Landfill, address the underground smoldering, and provide temporary relocation assistance to local residents affected by the odors,” according to the EPA.

The state’s legal order also requires Republic Services to compensate the Missouri Department of Natural Resources for its costs related to environmental sampling and monitoring. Koster also recently

demanded access to carbon monoxide data for the entire landfill to better understand the location and movement of the smoldering event at the site. Every month the community hosts a meeting to discuss the

latest landfill developments. The next meeting will be at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 20 at the Operating Engineers Union Hall, 3449 Hollenberg Dr., in Bridgeton. For more information, visit http://

www.stlradwastelegacy.com/ calendar-events/ Residents can report their concerns regarding landfill odors to the Department of Natural Resources at 800-3614827 or 573-751-5401.

Editorial /CommEntary

Black men major players in futures of BJC, WUSTL

Some of our most popular reporting in The St. Louis American, on stlamerican. com and on our social media sites – whether we like it or not – resembles the low-brow, controversy-stoking coverage that saturates our mainstream media. The provocative items that our entertainment editor culls for Hot Sheet and posts on our Facebook page are always among the biggest hits. And our Political EYE column usually cracks the Top 10 in our most-visited web stories when we are shaming a politician for an act we deem disgraceful. We talk trash, to a limited extent and in certain editorial spaces, because people enjoy trash-talk. However, our mission is unabashedly aspirational for the community. We are deeply committed to more fully informing the community about individual excellence and achievements by African Americans in St. Louis. It is not by accident that this newspaper’s philanthropic arm, the St. Louis American Foundation, raises money for the scholarships it fosters through an awards and networking series branded “Salute to Excellence.” This is at the very core of what we do to help build a better community. For this reason, we would like to take a moment to call attention to two front page stories, one in today’s paper and one in last week’s edition, that we find profoundly inspirational. This week, we are spotlighting entrepreneur Kelvin Westbrook for being named the first African-American chair of BJC HealthCare’s Board of Trustees. This places him among the most important decision-makers for our region’s largest employer, which operates a network of 13 hospitals with reported revenue of $3.8 billion in 2012. The individual who oversees the critical decisions for the region’s largest employer has a prominent a role in the future of this region. That influential decisionmaker, for the next five years, is a black man. Last week, we called attention to William F. Tate’s appointment as the new dean of the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences and vice provost for graduate education at Washington University. Like Westbrook at BJC, Tate now holds a key leadership position at our region’s most elite and influential institution in its field. To further confirm the confidence the university places in Tate, he was appointed to an expanded version of this position, which now includes all graduate students on the Danforth Campus, as well as those pursuing a PhD at the schools of medicine, business, social work, and engineering & applied science. Washington University – one of the nation’s most elite research institutions – has more than 1,800 graduate students enrolled in more than 50 programs leading to the PhD and in

19 programs leading to master’s degrees, and all of this intellectual activity now continues under the leadership of a black man.

It is worth noting that neither man is native to St. Louis, but it is here where – despite what many feel about the challenges that professional African Americans face in St. Louis – they have built their stellar careers. We are fortunate for the happenstances that led to their working here in our community and grateful for the examples they provide that black professionals can succeed here at the highest level.

Individuals who perform and operate at the level of Kelvin Westbrook and Bill Tate, it must be said, experience race as a determinant in their daily lives less than many of us do. When choosing someone to lead the board that oversees a $3.8 billion business or to oversee 69 degree programs educating some of the nation’s most brilliant graduate students, you can’t afford to prioritize race. Too much is at stake. So to applaud BJC and Washington University for entrusting much of their respective futures to these African-American men is only to applaud them for their forward-thinking that will advance their own best interests.

In these instances, however, these powerful institutions’ best interests align perfectly with our own mission of saluting African-American excellence. That is why we applaud BJC and Washington University for entrusting these critical roles to Kelvin Westbrook and Bill Tate. And, as these good men would expect us to do, we encourage and challenge them to act at all times, in their new leadership roles, consistent with their best instincts for promoting the value of diversity and the elimination of race-based disparities in the St. Louis region.

Not an attack on the rich

An ugly outbreak of whiny victimhood is ravaging some of America’s most exclusive ZIP codes. It’s as if some 1 percenters suddenly fear that old warning: “When the people shall have nothing more to eat, they will eat the rich.” Not to worry. The hoi polloi would much rather have a Big Mac – and also a job that pays a living wage, with sick leave, health insurance, vacation time and retirement. There was a time when even rich people agreed that these were laudable ambitions. Now, working to put these goals within the reach of more Americans amounts to persecution of the wealthy, according to besieged 1 percenters and their defenders. In a now-infamous letter to The Wall Street Journal legendary San Francisco venture capitalist Tom Perkins compared “the progressive war on the American one percent, namely the ‘rich,’” to the persecution of the Jews in Nazi Germany. He went so far as to warn that an anti-rich “Kristallnacht” may be coming, referring to the night in 1938 when Jewish-owned stores, homes, hospitals, schools and synagogues were smashed throughout Germany and Austria.

As evidence, Perkins cites the Occupy movement; the fact that some people resent how

Silicon Valley tech workers have driven up real estate prices and how they ride to work in special buses; and the “demonization of the rich embedded in virtually every word of our local newspaper, the San Francisco Chronicle.” He cites the Chronicle’s having called novelist Danielle Steel a “snob” despite her charity work. He neglects to mention that Steel is his former wife. Perkins later apologized for the Kristallnacht reference but stuck to the rest of his thesis. He told Bloomberg Television that the solution to inequality is lower taxes, said he understands his critics because “I have members of my own family in trailer parks, not immediate relatives but family.”

Then the Wall Street Journal weighed in with an editorial headlined “Perkinsnacht.” The newspaper wholeheartedly endorsed Perkins’ thesis –that there is what he called “a rising tide of hatred of the successful one percent” – while expressing reservations only about his “unfortunate, albeit provocative” language.

I know several members of the Journal’s editorial board personally, and while we often disagree, it’s not as if they are raving lunatics. They are just believers in capitalism (which is great) and trickledown economic policy (which by now should be thoroughly discredited). So I wonder: Why does the national conversation we’re beginning to have about inequality make some conservatives take leave of their senses?

As I See It - A Forum for Community Issues

The public has a right to know

A January 18 St. Louis Post Dispatch article about a civil rights complaint the Missouri NAACP filed against the St. Louis County Police Department quoted Rev. B.T. Rice, calling our allegations “baseless and unfounded.” But the article failed to mention that Rice is a St. Louis County Police Department chaplain with a department ID and badge. The fact that Rice is a chaplain with the county police creates a conflict of interest.

A conflict of interest occurs when an individual or organization is involved in multiple interests, one of which could possibly corrupt their motivation. A widely used definition is: “A conflict of interest is a set of circumstances that creates a risk that professional judgment or actions regarding a primary interest will be unduly influenced by a secondary interest.”

It’s important to recognize that “interest” includes not only financial gain but also such motives as the desire for professional advancement, to protect associates and/or fellow

employees, and the wish to do favors for family and friends. The brotherhood of law enforcement is a bond that is always there. The men who work the streets, those who have moved onto desk jobs, the women on patrol or the detectives who work sex crimes and homicides come from one family. The police family also has unwritten laws – the Blue Code of Silence – and officers who follow the code decline to report on fellow officers who participate in corruption. The police family is very distrusting by nature, thus to effectively work with them you must win their trust.

Establishing and maintaining trust is critical for police chaplains to be accepted into the police family. Chaplains participate in police graduation and promotion ceremonies, and any number of other activities that support and strengthen the police family. Chaplains are there for officers to lean on and seek counsel in the worst of times; thus, a loss of trust could jeopardize the entire Police Chaplaincy Program.

The St. Louis County Police Department has acknowledged that Lt. Patrick Hayes gave orders to target and lock up African Americans in the South County Center area, but also says that no county officers followed those orders. But the numbers say something different.

Two white county police

Letters to the editor

CORRECTION

In a recent obituary, the Rev. Victor J. Anderson was improperly identified in the photo caption. We regret the error. This week’s Obituaries column reprints his obituary with a corrected caption.

Remembering

Brother Baraka

The answer, I believe, is traction. I think the crazy, hair-on-fire rhetoric means that progressives are making progress in winning support for policies designed to lessen inequality.

Tax cuts and deregulation have dominated federal policy since the 1980s; during this time, inequality has spiraled out of control. If conservatives have nothing better to sell than more tax cuts and more deregulation, it’s no wonder that people are tuning in to what the other side has to say.

Income tax rates for the highest earners remain quite low, in historical terms, while earnings on capital gains –including some “gains” that look a lot like regular income – are taxed at a minuscule 15 percent. Advocating that taxes be raised for the wealthy is not a personal attack on anyone. It is a policy proposal. No, it wouldn’t solve all the government’s fiscal problems. But yes, it would provide significant new revenue while making our tax scheme more progressive and, in the eyes of most people, more fair.

The fabulously wealthy need love too. But they’ll get more of it if they stop congratulating themselves for all their hard work and realize that poor people work hard, too, sometimes at two or three jobs, and struggle to put food on the table.

Relax, Mr. Perkins, they’re not coming for you. They’re waiting for non-special buses to take them to the grocery store.

We appreciated the excellent article on the life and legacy of Amiri Baraka. As founding members of the St. Louis Congress of African People (an organization founded by Baraka in 1970), we have found our grief being easily replaced by the memories of our mentor and leader. Baraka was so much more than a poet and playwright; your article emphasized his impact wherever he placed his feet, as well as showing his humanness.

The Organization for Black Struggle is one of the co-sponsors of the local celebration planned for Brother Baraka. The three of us will join others who loved and respected the icon by sharing our personal reflections of Baraka 6 p.m. Tuesday, February 18 at the Sunshine Cultural Arts Center, 630 N. 59th St. in East St. Louis.

Jamala Rogers, Kalimu Endesha, Babatu Bayete Via email

Fighting for Normandy Schools

I thank you so very much for such a beautifully done article on my award and the efforts we in the Normandy area continue to do so that our residents enjoy the quality of life they deserve. I have had so many calls, emails and Facebook posts about it, so I know it was widely read all over the country, not just in St. Louis. Our work in the Normandy area is stacked with challenges, especially with the troubles facing our school district. Our communities in the 24:1 area will be severely negatively impacted if our district goes away. We know we can get back to full accreditation, but the powers that have financially and professionally crippled our district refuse to admit that they have done a lousy job

officers in 44 days arrested 105 African Americans in the South County Center vicinity, many on the parking lot of South County Center or Walmart. (St. Louis County Police Chief Tim Fitch declined an opportunity to confirm, deny or comment on these claims because they pertain to an ongoing investigation.)

According to reports by the Missouri Attorney General and others, African Americans are significantly more likely to be profiled, arrested and incarcerated than white suspects who commit similar offenses and have equal to longer criminal records. African-American defendants are consistently overcharged by prosecutors, compared to white defendants. The profiling of blacks is so pervasive throughout society that “criminal predator” is used as a euphemism for “young black male” and has served as a subtle rationale for the unofficial policy and practice of racial profiling by criminal justice practitioners. So the fact that the Post story failed to mention that Rice is a police chaplain infringed on the public’s legitimate right to information with regard to what is one of the most serious issues for African Americans.

Pruitt is president of the St. Louis city chapter of the NAACP.

funding and supporting the total education of our children. With the stats we have in this area – 94 percent of the children qualify for the free/ reduced-cost meal program, 30 percent are functionally homeless – so much more than just a six-hour education day is needed. The whole family and all of its ailments must be treated over the long haul, starting with early childhood education. The district has been trying to do that, especially since Beyond Housing and 24:1 programs started three years ago. But, it takes longer than three years to turn around 20-plus years of serious decline.

We won’t give up. We will continue to fight because our children deserve better than what the State of Missouri seems willing to give them. State legislators have to vote for the $5 million stopgap funding so our children can stay in their current schools through the school year’s end. Then a long-term plan has to be committed and funded for our change to come and be sustained over the long haul.

Mayor Monica Huddleston Greendale

Obama challenged Congress

We heard President Obama issue a call for action that creates economic opportunity in his State of the Union Address. President Obama challenged Congress to follow his lead and increase the minimum wage to give America a raise. He also urged lawmakers to create opportunities for citizenship through comprehensive immigration reform. The president called on all Americans to work hard, take responsibility and get everyone health insurance to secure a more prosperous future.

Roslyn M. Brock, chairman NAACP Board of Directors

Bridging the economic divide

The president’s State of the Union address doubled down on the progressive economic agenda he has been fighting for since his election. The system we have is failing

the average worker and lowincome communities. President Obama highlighted once again how economic inequality is a fundamental challenge this country faces, and the NAACP is committed to bridging the growing economic divide in this country.

Dedrick Muhammad Sr. Director for Economic

Programs, NAACP

Columnist Eugene Robinson

Guest Columnist

Adolphus Pruitt

Kelvin Westbrook William F. Tate

Area YMCAs merge

Last week the Boards of Directors of the YMCA of Greater St. Louis and the YMCA of Southwest Illinois voted in favor of combining under one new Y association. The new association, named the Gateway Region YMCA, will include 23 branches, with more than 200,000 members, serving nearly 730,000 youth and adults. It will cover St. Louis city and seven Missouri counties including St. Louis, St. Charles, Jefferson, Franklin, Washington, St. Francois, Ste. Genevieve, as well as St. Clair, Madison, Monroe, Randolph, Clinton and Marion counties in Illinois. The combination takes effect March 1, pending approval of the necessary regulatory bodies.

SLPS announces two make-up days

The St. Louis Public School District will adjust the 2013/2014 school calendar to make-up two of the six instructional days lost due to inclement weather thus far this winter. The district will cancel a professional development day scheduled for Friday, February 14 and use this day as a full instructional day. It is also cancelling the parent/teacher conference day scheduled for Friday, March 14 and will use this day as a full instructional day. The 3rd quarter report cards will now be sent home to parents via students on March 14. The district will withhold making a decision on the remaining four snow days until the threat of additional winter weather passes. The adjusted calendar is now available at www.slps. org.

Free income tax assistance

The St. Louis Treasurer’s Office would like low to moderate income residents to consider using volunteer income tax assistance when preparing and filing their tax returns. Information on free volunteer income tax assistance can be found on the Treasurer’s Office website at http://www.stlouis-mo.gov/ government/departments/treasurer/ or by calling the United Way of Greater St. Louis 211 information line.

99 and swinging

Cardinal Ritter Senior Services’ staffers Belinda Perkins and Jamie Saunders celebrated Irene Cummings’ 99th birthday with her on January 22. For seven years, Cummings has been coming to Catholic Charities Community Services’ St. Jane Center for the Swing Seniors exercise class. Irene has no health issues and only takes a daily vitamin. She lives independently at the St. John Neumann Apartments in Jennings and still does her own cooking.

Free Senior Citizens Handbook

The 19th edition of Legal Services of Eastern Missouri’s (LSEM) Senior Citizens Handbook is now available at lsem.org, the Missouri Bar homepage http://www.mobar.org and the statewide legal aid website http://www.lsmo.org/ library-item/senior-citizen-handbook.

Co-edited by LSEM’s Jeanne Philips-Roth and Beth Roper, the Senior Citizens Handbook (part of LSEM’s Elder Law Program) was funded by the Missouri Bar Foundation and printed by the Missouri Bar.

The 72-page handbook is free and contains updated information on financial assistance, healthcare, housing, consumer issues, personal planning/protection, veterans and referral for persons with disabilities.

Handbooks also are available at LSEM headquarters (4232 Forest Park Ave.) and the Hannibal and Union branch offices.

Who cares about poverty?

By Julianne Malveaux Guest Columnist

When data was released last Fall comparing the poverty situation in 2011 to that in 2012, many hoped that poverty levels would drop as an indication of economic good news. But while the GDP (Gross Domestic Product) has risen and the wealthy are gaining income, those stuck at the bottom are still simply stuck.

Poverty rates in 2013, at more than 15 percent, are almost the same as they were last year. Poverty in the AfricanAmerican community, at more than 27 percent has not improved. Similarly, Latinos experience an unemployment rate over 26 percent. Again, no improvement.

In the face of this data, Congress decided to cut food programs by $40 billion, which kicks between 2 and 4 million people out of the program. Additionally, there are work requirements now imposed on those who receive food stamps. With official unemployment rates exceeding 7 percent, where are the poor supposed to find employment?

The vote to eliminate nutritional assistance was achingly close, with a margin of about 10 votes separating those who decided to maintain food assistance and those who wanted to cut it. Every Democrat voted not to cut food assistance; some Republicans joined them. I guess those who voted to reduce these benefits have no hungry people in their districts.

The message of the poverty data is that our nation really does not care about poor people. We have seen that “trickle down” and other theories don’t work, and we have yet to implement a model that requires those who have gained economic expansion to share their gains with an economy that is faltering.

We need a national policy to raise the wages of those at the bottom. Sure, the business community will fight this, asserting that they won’t hire if wages rise. That’s not necessarily true. Higher wages may cut their profits just a bit, but shouldn’t employers be willing to see slightly lower profits in exchange for the economic survival of their workers?

Those who aren’t on the bottom now exhale and say this issue doesn’t matter to them. But the way we are going, the person who is living high on the hog today might be making low wages (or no wages) tomorrow. The low wage issue is important to all of us.

This poverty issue affects all of us, and we need to respond to the fact that too many of our brothers and sisters (of all races) are poor and unemployed or under employed. Our indifference is a profound concurrence in the oppression of others.

Malveaux is an author and economist based in Washington, D.C.

Julianne Malveaux

Best return on our investment Access Missouri, not Bright Flight Boost, should be funded

By Rev. Starsky Wilson and Faith Sandler

For The St. Louis American

A proposal before the Missouri Legislature purports to keep the “best and brightest” in the state. Noting that by 2025 approximately 60 percent of Missouri jobs will require some postsecondary education, the Bright Flight Boost proposal aims to fill those jobs by keeping Missouri’s top test-takers in state. The plan would give students who already receive the Bright Flight scholarship of $2,500 annually an additional $5,000 for each year they agree to work full-time in Missouri

MCU

Continued from A1

immediately after graduation. Top achievers, the theory goes, would stay here and create the 21st century workforce Missouri companies need.

n Rather than create a new program on the foundation of one that is not meeting its goal, Missouri should invest in its scholarship program that is working.

It’s hard to imagine anyone opposing the awarding of scholarships that promise to reward excellence and retain talent. But the reasons to oppose this proposal abound.

Bright Flight is Missouri’s merit-based scholarship program. But don’t let the name fool you. “Bright” is a reference to a test score and not to intelligence or capacity to contribute to our state’s workforce. Presently the scholarship is awarded to the students who score in the top 3 percent of ACT test-takers in

needs to lower the age for mandatory school attendance.

research,” she said. “They limit real community involvement in our public schools.”

The group says it is bring its faith values into the wide-ranging discussion of how Missouri can deal with struggling school districts – an issue brought into sharp focus last summer when students from Normandy and Riverview Gardens began transferring to nearby accredited districts.

Commenting on suggestions from CEE-Trust and others that special districts be set up that would monitor underachieving districts, Randazzo said that idea would not create the proper atmosphere to improve student performance.

“I feel that is creating an educational ghetto,” she said.

Besides the three basic points in its plan, Randazzo also said Missouri has to fully fund the foundation formula, designed to provide a solid financial footing for all districts across the state.

“Without adequate funding,” she said, “any reform efforts become unfunded mandates, and they are likely to be unsuccessful.”

And, she noted, the state

“In Missouri,” Randazzo said out, “you don’t have to go to school until you’re 7 years old. You’re not required to go to kindergarten. That’s too long to wait, and children in poverty need that good start.

The CEETrust plan concentrated on the Kansas City schools, which are unaccredited. But state officials said its conclusions could be applied to other troubled school districts in Missouri.

the state in a given year.

But doing well in school and doing well on the ACT test are not the same thing. Doing well in life is even further afield from one’s score on an entrance exam.

“Bright” is not the only misnomer at work here. There are no data to suggest that student “flight” is a problem driven by financial concerns. In fact, not a single question about financial need is asked of students eligible for Bright Flight. Further, while this program has been in place for decades, there is not sufficient evidence that it has been a deciding factor for students receiving it. Bright Flight is a monetary reward designed to keep students in state. And it’s not working. So the answer the governor and Missouri

Rev. Starsky Wilson

Legislature have come up with is to throw more money at the supposed problem. Students receiving the $5,000 forgivable loan would receive it on top of a $2,500 scholarship. Why would the state provide up to $7,500 per year to Bright Flight students who in the vast majority do not have financial need, when students with financial need are restricted to a maximum Access Missouri grant of approximately $1,500 per year?

Further, the $17 million Bright Flight Boost proposal would require the state to create a tracking and enforcement infrastructure not currently in place. Why is Missouri creating more bureaucracy to create a forgivable loan program that is not needed?

As Missouri looks for

opportunities to develop a talented homegrown workforce, it need look no further than the Access Missouri program. While Gov. Nixon has proposed an increase of $8.6 million for Access Missouri, the state would be best served if all proposed financial aid increases went to this program.

The $17 million proposed budget for the Bright Flight Boost program could be a game-changer for lowincome students in our state, bringing total state funds for need-based aid closer to the $92 million budget for Access Missouri last seen in FY2009. This would enable Access Missouri to provide meaningful grant awards to students with true financial need.

Completing a degree is a wealth creator for individuals; degree completion is also critically important for our

communities and our state. Nationally, metropolitan areas in the Top 10 for median household earnings are, not surprisingly, the Top 10 in degree completion. In the St. Louis metro area, a 1 percent increase in college attainment equates to a $2.4 billion increase in regional income. Rather than create a new program on the foundation of one that is not meeting its goal, Missouri should invest in its scholarship program that is working. Access Missouri provides the greatest return on investment of all of Missouri’s financial aid programs, giving access to students who otherwise are unable to afford post-secondary education.

Faith Sandler is co-chair of St. Louis Graduates and executive director of The Scholarship Foundation of St. Louis. Rev. Starsky Wilson is president and CEO of the Deaconess Foundation.

n “Without adequate funding, any reform efforts become unfunded mandates, and they are likely to be unsuccessful.”

– Carolyn Randazzo, Metropolitan Congregations United

Students living in the Kansas City district have not begun transferring to nearby accredited districts, as students from Normandy and Riverview Gardens have been doing since the start of the current school year. But a recent Missouri Supreme Court ruling said the law does apply to Kansas City, so the start of transfers there looms.

Officials with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education have begun hearings statewide to get public comment on the various

plans that have been suggested to help troubled school districts. The state school board is scheduled to hold a working session on Feb. 10 to discuss the various plans, and DESE is expected to present its plan to the board on Feb. 18. The Metropolitan Congregations United plan found fault with many parts of the CEETrust report, taking particular aim at a proposed new achievement district that would be in charge of monitoring and providing help for underachieving schools. Instead of segregating such districts, the group proposed a plan for sustainable school improvement that called for more time for Kansas City, whose school showed improvement in the first year of Missouri’s new evaluation program for public schools.

“We believe,” the study concluded, “that sustainable transformation will happen only when students, parents and communities are brought to the table to help shape a unique and locally owned plan for

improvement.”

Much of the group’s report dealt with what the group considers to be the shortcomings of the CEE-Trust plan.

Specifically, it took the CEE-Trust study to task for consolidating control over troubled districts; relying on market-based reforms and an increase use of charter schools; increasing schools’ reliance

on short-term, inexperienced teachers from programs such as Teach for America; stressing the advantage of decentralized budgeting, which it said has not been shown to improve school funding or equity; and using more high-stakes tests to measure the performance of students, teachers and schools.

It also said that districts in New York City and New Orleans, which were highlighted by CEE-Trust as being successful for using its strategies, still have challenges, and much of their improvement can be traced to a time before the recommended reforms took place. Edited for length and reprinted with permission from The Beacon and St. Louis Public Radio, news. stlpublicradio.org.

Rhonda and Gregory Robinson, parents in the Normandy School District, discuss their concerns with Vikki Collier, a parent facilitator for the district. The district hosted a community forum at Barack Obama Elementary School on Saturday morning. Superintendent Ty McNichols and his administrative team presented their plan for improving the district and moving toward full state accreditation.

Photo by Wiley Price

Continued from A1

said Westbrook, president and CEO of the consulting firm KRW Advisors. “McKee came to appreciate my approach to problem-solving. I did not know how much interest I had in health care until it was front and center.”

For more than 15 years, Westbrook has volunteered as a problem-solver for BJC HealthCare system – serving as a board trustee for 12 years and a Christian Hospital board member prior to that. And at the beginning of January, Westbrook became the health system’s new board chair –making him the first AfricanAmerican or minority to chair the board of trustees at BJC.

Westbrook’s five-year term puts him at the helm of the region’s largest employer, with a network of 13 hospitals and reported revenue of $3.8 billion in 2012. Westbrook succeeded Don Ross, vice chairman of Enterprise Holdings Inc.

“Kelvin knows BJC, and he knows the St Louis community,” said Steven Lipstein, BJC president and CEO. “Kelvin has always encouraged BJC’s board and leaders to make health care more available, more affordable, endlessly in pursuit of even better patient outcomes. He wants St. Louis to be a healthier community.”

Lipstein also said that BJC must be an inclusive environment. Out of 17 board

SEBELIUS

Continued from A1

state of Missouri daily to support the newly insured if Medicaid was expanded.”

Expanding Medicaid to 133 percent of poverty is completely covered under the Affordable Care Act for the first three calendar years (20142016), gradually decreasing to

trustees, there are three women and three people of color, he said.

“While we are not yet where we will be someday, as openings arise and opportunities present, we will continue to seek out more women and minority leaders of BJC HealthCare,” Lipstein said.

Sense of responsibility

Growing up in Tacoma, Washington, Westbrook was one of 11 siblings and the son of a bishop for the Church of God in Christ. Being involved in that larger community, he saw how the lack of quality health care and economic resources affected some of the church members’ lives, he said. He also saw how some others would step up to help those in need.

“We saw firsthand how the church and my parents would give their time and other resources to help the lives of those less fortunate,” he said.

Westbrook attended middle and high school in the suburbs of Tacoma during the late ‘60s and ‘70s – when more of society started to be transformed during the aftermath of the Civil Rights Movement, he said.

“I have been fortunate to benefit from all the hard work and efforts of the generation before us,” he said. “My access to opportunity – educational and others – are the direct products of those efforts. There is a sense of responsibility

a 90/10 percent federal/state split.

“That is only available if a state choses to come to 133 percent,” she said. She said 33,000 Missourians have already signed up in the new marketplace, and enrollment events are scheduled in the city to help facilitate enrollment.

“Here in the city, we’ll be reaching out to more than 70,000 part-time employees in

that I feel and my family feels as a result of the sacrifice of others. It’s coupled with church teachings I learned growing up.”

His wife, Valerie Bell, grew up in Brooklyn, and she still considers New York a second home.

The power couple met at Harvard, where their three children – Lauren, Erinn and Brent – have also attended. Both practiced law in New York for more than a decade. Shortly prior to moving to St. Louis, Westbrook got involved in the “telecommunications explosion” by becoming a partner in a limited partnership that purchased a Charter Communications affiliate. He ultimately wanted to start his own business, and subsequently he did that.

n “Kelvin has always encouraged BJC’s board and leaders to make health care more available, more affordable.”

– Steven Lipstein, BJC president and CEO

But first, he sold his partnership interest and took a year off to volunteer by mentoring young AfricanAmerican teens in St. Louis. He then co-founded the cable and telecommunications provider Millennium Digital Media, LLC, where he served

more than 3,000 hospitalityindustry businesses,” said Mayor Francis G. Slay, who joined her for the media event.

“These are businesses that typically have a lot of part-time employees and they do not qualify for employer funded benefits, including health insurance.”

The city is also working in partnership with the Urban League to hold 16 enrollment sessions in February and

as president and CEO from 1997 to 2006.

Westbrook serves on the corporate board of Archer Daniel Midland, a Fortune 500 company whose headquarters in Decatur Ill. will soon move to Chicago. He’s also a board member at Commerce Bank (St. Louis) and Stifel Financial Corp. (headquartered in St. Louis), among others.

When he and Bell moved to St. Louis almost 20 years ago, their children were 9, 6 and 1. They both have always believed: To whom much is given, much will be required.

“We quickly identified that our passions galvanized around education and health care,” said Kelvin, who has also served as board chair at St. Louis Children’s Hospital.

Soon after arriving in St. Louis, Dr. William Danforth, chancellor emeritus of Washington University, asked Bell to be an attorney in the St. Louis Public Schools desegregation case. Both Bell and Westbrook strongly believe that the two pillars of success are health and education.

March.

Saint Louis University student Nathaniel Carol, who is married with children and works part-time, spoke to the audience about the difference that having health insurance has made in his family.

“It’s the difference between paying your bills on time versus paying them late; it’s the difference between being able to afford clothes for kids who are growing as opposed

Health isn’t just what happens in the exam room, and Westbrook understands this, said Jason Purnell, assistant professor at the George Warren Brown School of Social Work at Washington University.

“He understands how important education is as a predictor of health outcomes,” said Purnell, who leads a team currently researching health disparities among African Americans in the region. “The fact that he is focused on both of those issues is crucially important. Westbrook is an accomplished business executive and also somebody who cares about the community.”

Workforce diversity

Westbrook said he also will work towards expanding opportunities for young people, including African Americans and other minorities, to pursue careers in healthcare.

Lee F. Fetter, group president for BJC, said Westbrook had a strong influence on increasing workforce diversity as board chair of St. Louis Children Hospital.

“Kelvin’s philosophy in this regard is simple and direct – effort is important, but results are the only true measure of intent,” Fetter said. “Kelvin played a key role in the creation of a new leadership position, vice president for diversity inclusion and equity at SLCH and BJH – a first for the two BJC teaching

to collecting hand-me-downs,” Carol said. “It’s nice to not worry that if we get sick, we can’t go to the doctor – it might cost too much out of pocket.”

Carol said with assistance, his family is saving about $400 through the insurance premium tax credit.

hospitals.” He has also been a strong advocate for increasing St. Louis Children’s financial commitment to communityoutreach programs and improvement of hospital care programs that directly benefit minorities and lowincome families, Fetter said. Westbrook said he is proud that BJC is now reaching into the community through piloting initiatives such as Raising St. Louis, which provides pregnancy and early childhood services to residents in five North St. Louis zip codes (call 314-747-7785 for information).

“It’s an interesting time in health care, as you know,” Westbrook said. “Throughout my careers, I have learned that I do my best work when there are no obvious solutions. Some people run to the fire, and some people freeze. I would rather embrace the situation.”

With the passage and implementation of the Affordable Care Act, Westbrook said BJC has a number of new regulatory issues to consider. Overall, the changing landscape in health care is going to present a number of new challenges, he said.

“We have to do something – and the ‘something’ is the big question mark,” he said. “We have an opportunity to make some inroads. We’ve been blessed as a system with great leadership. Our platform is not broken; it’s very strong. We are well-positioned to withstand the changes ahead.”

“I know there are other people who work harder than me and get paid a lot less here in the state,” he said, “and we need to try to provide coverage for them, as well, through Medicaid.” Sebelius urged people looking for coverage to enroll by February 15 in order to get health insurance coverage as early as March 1.

To request assistance, employers should call St. Louis’ Citizen’s Services Bureau at 314-622-4800. Individuals can enroll at www. healthcare.gov.

Charlesetta A. Coleman

Lifelong St. Louis Educator

Charlesetta Allmon Coleman left this earth on Friday, January 31, 2014. She was 97. Mrs. Coleman passed peacefully in her sleep after a brief illness. In recent months she resided at Cedars of Town and Country, a skilled nursing facility. Mrs. Coleman was born to Charles and Henrietta Matthews Allmon on December 2, 1916. In 1948 she married the late Milton Julian Coleman and to that union a son was born. Her devoted son, Milton Bert Coleman (a retired Broadway Musical Star and former Universal Music Executive) has always been proud to call her Mother. Charlesetta Coleman earned a B.A. in Education from Wilberforce University in 1939. She later earned a Masters in Education from the University of Illinois. She began her life as an educator in the Richmond Heights/Maplewood School District. When she retired from that position she realized she would be bored as a retiree so she quickly accepted a position with St. Louis Public Schools. She also left SLPS as an honored retiree.

Mrs. Coleman was a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, St. Paul A.M.E. Church and St. James A.M.E. Church. She was an active member of the Floral Club at St. James A.M.E Church. One of her proudest moments was winning a contest for Prettiest Garden in St. Louis in 1967. Mayor Alfonso Cervantes personally presented her with an award. Charlesetta loved gardening, reading, history,

art, art and crafts, traveling, puppies, meeting new people and socializing. Mrs. Coleman is survived by her son Milton Bert Coleman and a host of nieces and nephews. A Memorial Service honoring Charlesetta Allmon Coleman will be held at St. Paul A.M.E. Church, 1260 Hamilton Ave., St. Louis, MO 63112, (314)385-8900 on Wednesday , February 12, 2014 at 11 a.m. Services will be conducted by St. Paul A.M.E. and St. James A.M.E. Churches.

George L. Montgomery, Jr.

George L. Montgomery, Jr., was born in St. Louis, Missouri, on July 13, 1934, to parents George L. Montgomery, Sr. and Geraldine Montgomery. He was the oldest of five children. His siblings were Vernon, Phillip, Ronald and Marsha. Mr. Montgomery joined Wayman AME Church at the age of four and remained a member throughout his life. He was educated in the St. Louis public schools and graduated from Vashon High School in 1951. He went on to St. Louis University, earning a B.S. Degree in Commerce in 1955 and after finishing his undergraduate degree, he studied real estate at Washington University. After completing his education, Mr. Montgomery served in the U.S. Navy from 1956-1959. In August of 1964, George married Joyce Ann Bullard, to that union two children were born, Gay Lynn Montgomery

and Kelly Ann Montgomery. In 1965, Mr. Montgomery was the chief founder and organizer of Gateway National Bank, the only African American bank in St. Louis, Missouri. That same year he received the Frontiers International “Man of the Year” award for being one of the founders of the Gateway National Bank, and in 2003, he was featured in the Missouri Historical Society for the active role he played in being one of the founders of Gateway National Bank. Mr. Montgomery started his own real estate company in 1969 which he owned and operated until 2011.

Mr. Montgomery was honored with the St. Louis University Merit Award for achievement in promoting minority business in 1980. He received numerous awards from various organizations for his leadership and contributions to the St. Louis community. In 1980, he was awarded the Missouri State Senate Award and that same year he was honored with the Top Ladies of Distinction award. In 1984, he was awarded the “Outstanding Employee” award from the St. Louis Development Corporation. He was also inducted into the Vashon High School Hall of fame in 1995. On September 29, 2000, Mr. Montgomery was honored with a City of St. Louis Proclamation from Mayor Clarence Harmon. That same year, he was honored for ten years of service as a board member of the Monsanto YMCA and was awarded the Zealot Award.

Mr. Montgomery served on the board of directors for the Annie Malone Children and Family Service Center for over 30 years, as well as serving as President of the board for four years. Mr. Montgomery was honored by the Annie Malone Children’s Home with the Board Member of the Year award in 2004 and also in 2008. The children of Annie Malone Children’s Home had been a passion for Mr. Montgomery and he has devoted many years

of service to those children.

Mr. Montgomery has also served on the board of directors for the North Side Prevention Commission for twelve years as well as the South Side Daycare Center for five years. He was also a longtime member of the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

In September of 2001, George was blessed with the birth of his only grandchild, Brionna Mary MontgomeryWalton. She was truly the light of his life and he loved her so dearly. George departed this world on January 18, 2014. He was preceded in death by his parents. He leaves to cherish his memory: his two daughters, Gay Lynn, and Kelly; beloved granddaughter, Brionna, his brothers Phil (Mary), Ronald (Carol), Vernon and sister, (Marsha), a host of friends, nieces and nephews. Special friends who cherish his memory are Ms. Lillian Coger and Mr. Raymond Howard.

Rev. Victor J. Anderson

Reverend Victor J. Anderson, age 62, a resident of Saint Louis, Missouri passed on Thursday, January 9, 2014. Reverend Anderson’s precious memories will be cherished and his death longremembered by a loving and devoted wife, Priscilla Anderson; two stepdaughters, Melissa Adams and Charlene Jackson, both of St. Louis, Missouri; mother, Verla A. Hopkins of O’Fallon, Illinois; two sisters, Carliss G. Spight of Cahokia, Illinois and Kimberly D. Hopkins of O’Fallon Illinois; Mom-in-Law, Mamie Cole and Brother-in-Law, William J. Cole, Jr. both of St. Louis, Missouri ; seven grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends.

The Yes Program

By Cimani Lumzy Senior

Hi my name is Cimani Lumzy and I have been working in the YES (Youth Exploring Science) Program at the Saint Louis Science Center for four years now.

During my years working as a YES teen, I started out doing summer time science, which is the irst component that everyone must complete as their irst summer working as a YES teen. We did mini but exciting projects with kids from the age of 3 to the age of 18. My next two summers, I worked in the component called agriscience.

There, we didn’t work much with kids because we had big projects of our own. For instance we entered a competition competing for scholarships. In the competition I had to make my own caramel from scratch not using a recipe to see if there was a way that companies could use cheap ways to make caramel that won’t potentially harm human beings or any other animals in the future. I walked away with 4th place and a small scholarship! But besides the scholarship, we do many things like take care of animals, harvest plants, take care of worms, and even work a lot on our little farm we call Science Corner. This past summer I worked as an intern at Girls Incorporated of Saint Louis, working with all girls from the ages of 5 to 17. But everything that I did

wasn’t science. They had me teach a cheerleading class with a young lady who I soon became very close with. And had to deal with situations like bullying, ighting and etc. And it made me realize that as a young lady it was only right to inluence these girls to make the right decisions and do the right thing even if they don’t live in a good community. I really enjoyed my experience at Girls Incorporated of Saint Louis. During the school year I work in the component of agriscience and found a passion in this career so much that in the fall when I attend college Agriculture is the career that I choose to major in. The YES program provided me with an experience of a lifetime. I would deinitely recommend this program to others, not only for the pay but for the experience as well. You might even meet your best-friend like I did!

Cimani Lumzy

Charlesetta Coleman

George Montgomery Jr.

Rev. Victor Anderson

Business

Margarita Flores, vice president, community affairs for Anheuser-Busch, Inc. and Constance G. Gully, interim president of Harris-Stowe State University, unveiled the new Anheuser-Busch School of Business in HSSU’s Dr. Henry

Administration Building, 3026 Laclede Ave., last week. The department was moved onto the main campus from a leased south St. Louis location.

Harris-Stowe relocates business school

Anheuser-Busch School now in Givens Building on main campus

By Bridjes O’Neil

American

Louis

Of The St.

Last week Harris-Stowe State University (HSSU) welcomed the return of the AnheuserBusch School of Business to its main campus with a dedication ceremony. Board members, corporate sponsors and community partners were joined by faculty, staff and students at the unveiling, held at the university’s Dr. Henry Givens Jr. Administration Building, 3026 Laclede Ave.

“We are confident that the space will continue to cultivate

competitive leaders,” Constance G. Gully, interim-president at HSSU, told the crowd during her opening remarks. With student access and cost savings as contributing factors, HSSU’s Board of Regents made the decision to relocate the business school from the university’s South Campus last summer. Gully said the university could no longer afford to invest in a leased facility at

n “We are confident that the space will continue to cultivate competitive leaders.”

5707 Wilson Ave., currently owned by the State of Missouri, that needs about $2 million in renovations.

Gully said, “We’re saving almost $300,000.”

– Constance G. Gully, interim-president at HSSU

The South Campus, located at Highway 44 and Hampton Avenue, opened in the fall of 2005 and was the university’s first satellite campus. At that time, Gully said, the university had less space on its main campus to accommodate

the business school.

“We have a beautiful main campus that now, with all of the university’s recent expansion, can accommodate the needs of all of our students,” she said. The business school is now housed on the third floor of the administration building in Suite 307. It was the former site of the university’s Center for Retention and Student Success, now the Academic Resource Center. With the completion of the $15 million Freeman Bosley Jr. Residence Hall and Dining Facility in 2011, the Academic

County appoints first diversity manager

Robert Horton’s first task is to lead disparity study

By Rebecca Rivas

Louis American

Of The St.

For the first time, St. Louis County has a manager in charge of creating and monitoring diversity programs for the government’s contract spending and workforce.

D.M.

D.M. (Daryl) Hodnett has been appointed director of Supplier Diversity and Small Business Development for the University of Missouri System. He works with senior leadership and campus procurement and construction groups system-wide to support efforts to increase supplier diversity results. Previously he was an executive at the Procter & Gamble Company in Cincinnati. His last assignment was group manager for Corporate Supplier Diversity, North America.

Cynthia D. Ackins is the new director of Corporate Relations for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals of Greater St. Louis. She will manage national and local campaigns and serve as the staff liaison for the Champions for Children, the young professional’s board. She most recently worked for the Consortium for Graduate Study in Management as manager of Corporate Relations and for United Way of Greater St. Louis as coordinator of Major Gifts & Planned Giving.

Christal DeLoach is the owner of The Media Hog, which has been selected for the 2013 Best of Florissant Award in the Business Services category by the Florissant Award Program, which identifies companies that have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. The Media Hog is a digital marketing agency that specializes in helping businesses increase their internet presence to generate sales and leads.

Kenneth G. Poole Jr., MD, is joining the Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, AZ as a senior associate consultant. In St. Louis he has had a solo practice in Clayton and been medical director of Passport Health in Brentwood, served as president of the Mound City Medical Forum and as board member of the St. Louis Chapter of the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. He is a St. Louis native, Matthews-Dickey Boys & Girls Club alumnus and graduate of Lutheran North High School.

Business Briefs

Entrepreneur Of The Year deadline is March 14

EY is calling for nominations for the 28th Annual EY Entrepreneur Of The Year awards. To qualify, entrepreneurs must be the founder or an executive who organizes, manages and assumes the risk of a business early in its life cycle or during its growth. Self-nominations are encouraged, and there is no fee. Award winners are selected in a number of industry categories by a panel of independent regional judges. The program has a firm deadline of March 14 for nominations, with the Central Midwest awards gala scheduled for June 19 at the Sheraton in Overland Park, KS. The Central Midwest program includes companies based in Missouri and Kansas. To nominate a candidate, visit ey.com/us/eoy/cm.

Bi-State, National Park Service renew agreements

The Bi-State Development Agency and the National Park Service have signed renewed agreements for services and fee management relating to the development and operation of the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial which includes the Gateway Arch, Luther Ely Smith Square and the Old Courthouse.

Robert Horton

After selecting a firm to complete the study, he expects

Robert Horton, a St. Louis native with 20 years of experience with business diversity initiatives, joined the county on January 21. His salary is $74,500. “Mr. Horton has a wealth of knowledge and experience in both the public and private sector as it relates to diversity and inclusion,” said St. Louis County Executive Charlie Dooley. “I believe he is exactly the right person to help us strengthen our inclusion efforts.” Horton’s first major task will be to facilitate the county’s disparity study. In his first couple of weeks on staff, he has been gathering information from all the departments, he said. His goal is to have a request for proposals (RFP) for the disparity study within 90 days.

the process will take about six months. From there, he will lead county government in establishing programs and procedures for inclusion in both workforce and procurement. Horton believes that strong county inclusion policies lead to economic growth and healthy communities.

n “We should engage minorities and women in the front end, in the first tier.”

– Robert Horton

“The makeup of the St. Louis community is diverse,” Horton said. “You want your community to be engaged in the procurement process. I think it is good for growth and for your tax base.” Prior to joining St. Louis County, Horton directed the diversity business program for the Nashville-based Hospital Corporation of America, whose capital construction program averages nearly $1 billion

The renewal and signing of the agreements will allow Bi-State to move forward with capital projects at the Gateway Arch such as raising an estimated $7.5 million in bonds for the replacement of the Arch tram system motor generator sets and rehabilitation of the service elevators. The signed agreements also mean that plans to redevelop the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial and St. Louis Riverfront can move forward. The original agreement dates back to 1962.

Kwame finishes work on $3M University City firehouse

Construction is complete on the new $3 million Firehouse #1 at Vernon and Westgate Avenues in University City, Missouri. Kwame

(Daryl) Hodnett

Givens Jr.

Cynthia D. Ackins

Christal DeLoach

Kenneth G. Poole Jr.

Photo by Wiley Price

Rule changes tighten reverse mortgage eligibility

By Jason Alderman

Reverse mortgages have become increasingly popular in recent years, as cash-strapped seniors seek ways to keep pace with rising expenses –not to mention cope with the pummeling their retirement savings took during the Great Recession.

But the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) noticed that borrowers increasingly have been opting to withdraw most or all of their home equity at closing, leaving little or nothing for future needs. Consequently, by mid-2012 nearly 10 percent of reverse mortgage holders were in default and at risk of foreclosure because they

SCHOOL

Continued from A9 Resource Center was relocated to the more spacious and newly renovated former dining hall space on the ground floor.

Gully said corporate sponsors and community partners – including the African American Business Leadership Council, which has contributed more than $350,000 since it was established in 2001 – are essential to the success of HSSU and its students.

She acknowledged more than a decade of academic and financial support from Anheuser-Busch, Inc., highlighting The AnheuserBusch Foundation’s most recent $1 million scholarship contribution.

Margarita Flores, vice president of community affairs at Anheuser-Busch, Inc., said education is the best way for

couldn’t pay their taxes and insurance.

That’s why Congress authorized HUD to tighten FHA reverse mortgage requirements in order to: encourage homeowners to tap their equity more slowly; better ensure that borrowers can afford their loan’s fees and other financial obligations; and strengthen the mortgage insurance fund from which loans are drawn. Here are the key changes: Most reverse mortgage borrowers can now withdraw no more than 60 percent of their total loan during the first year. Previously, borrowers could tap the entire amount on day one – a recipe for future financial disaster for those with limited means.

A-B to support the community “because it not only helps the individual, but entire communities.”

HSSU strives to provide its diverse student body with affordable access to higher education.

Flores said, “If it wasn’t for

n “If it wasn’t for institutions like HarrisStowe, people like me might not have had the opportunity to get a degree.”

– Margarita Flores, Anheuser-Busch

institutions like Harris-Stowe State University, people like me might not have had the opportunity to go to school, get a degree, have a position at Anheuser-Busch and be able

The first-year limit may be waived for certain homeowners whose “mandatory obligations” (e.g., upfront insurance premiums, loan origination fees, delinquent federal debt, etc.) exceed the 60 percent amount; but they’ll have to pay a higher upfront mortgage insurance premium – 2.5 percent of the home’s appraised value instead of the normal 0.5 percent. (Note: Credit card debt isn’t considered a mandatory obligation, so those with significant credit card debt may not be able to withdraw enough to pay off their debt.) Generally, borrowers can take the money either as a lump sum at closing (with a fixed-rate loan), or as an ongoing line of credit or

to help institutions like HarrisStowe.”

Gully, Flores and Christine A. Chadwick, a HSSU board member, unveiled the Anheuser-Busch logo, branding the suite’s windowpanes. Small groups of six guests were encouraged to tour the suite, led by business school students.

Amenities include a reception area, a board room for faculty and administrators, a multi-purpose computer lab and trade room, and a media lab. Also included are the offices of the dean and assistant dean, as well as all business faculty and staff members.

Gully spoke on behalf of Dr. Givens, who was unable to attend but offered his unwavering support.

Dr. Givens’ tenure as president of HSSU lasted 32 years, making him the longest-serving president of any university in Missouri. Under his leadership, the university increased its student

monthly payments (adjustable rate loan). However, lumpsum payments are now subject to the 60 percent mandatory obligations test, so to withdraw more than that you’ll have to go the line-of-credit route, at least for the first year; after that, you can tap the remaining balance if you wish. Under previous rules, almost anyone with sizeable home equity could take out a reverse mortgage. Now, potential borrowers must undergo a detailed financial assessment to ensure they’ll be able to meet future tax and insurance obligations.

Lenders are required to review the borrower’s credit history. They also must analyze all income from earnings, pensions,

population and expanded from one building with only one degree to seven buildings and 15 degrees.

With nearly 500 students, the school of business is the university’s largest program generating nearly 50 percent of the university’s graduates.

“We are excited to have the business students back at the Givens Campus,” Gully said, “and are looking forward to the presence of those students having a great impact on our freshman scholars.”

HORTON

Continued from A9

annually.

A Normandy High School graduate, Horton has a master’s degree in procurement and acquisition management from Webster University. Horton said he’s passionate

IRAs, 401(k) plans or Social Security, and weigh it against the borrower’s likely living expenses, including other outstanding debts. Those who come up short (i.e., are more likely to default) may be required to set aside money from their reverse mortgage to cover future obligations –thereby lowering the amount of equity they’d be able to tap. The new regulations also reduce the maximum amount of home equity that can be borrowed against – 10 to 15 percent less than before, on average. Generally, the older you are, the more equity you have and the lower the interest rate, the more you’ll be able to borrow. Note: The age component of this calculation is based on the youngest party

about coming home to St. Louis after being away for nine years and helping to support the local minority business community.

“I’m very familiar with the contracting community here,” he said. “I want to make sure this is a successful rollout.” Horton worked as a diversity manager on the Lambert-St. Louis International Airport runway expansion. In his experience working on the airport project, Horton said he recognized some challenges that he would like to address through the county’s inclusion programs. He would like to see more consideration for minority and women prime contractors.

“We always tend to contract through the second tier,” he said. “We should engage minorities and women in the front end, in the first tier.”

He previously sat on the board of the National

listed on the loan. Because reverse mortgages are so complicated, potential borrowers are required to consult an HUD-approved counselor before being allowed to apply. Do preliminary research at helpful sites sponsored by HUD (www.hud. gov), the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (www. cfpb.gov) and AARP (www. aarp.org). Also check with an accountant, financial planner or lawyer specializing in elder law to make sure a reverse mortgage is right for you.

Jason Alderman directs Visa’s financial education programs. To Follow Jason Alderman on Twitter: www. twitter.com/PracticalMoney.

Minority Contractors Association and has various trainings in DBE certification and procurement under his belt.

After the disparity study is complete, it will be the first time that the county will establish minority participation goals – whereas St. Louis city has had goals in place since 1997.

The St. Louis American asked Horton why he thinks it has taken the county so long to establish goals and conduct a disparity study.

“You have to have the right climate,” Horton said. “As a whole, we have seen a migration to North County. We have seen a growth of bigger corporations that have come to St. Louis County. They have their successful diversity programs. At this point in time, you have the support of the community, and you have the support of the administration.”

The engineering twins

Juanita and Stacia Graham work for Boeing –and serve

By Penny Smith For The

St. Louis

American

A binary star is two individual stars revolving around a common center of gravity. Juanita and Stacia Graham are a human example of this astral phenomenon.

This past October, the identical twins received the Technology Rising Star awards at the annual Women of Color STEM Conference in Dallas, TX. This award is given to young women nominated by their employers who are helping to shape technology for the future.

Juanita and Stacia are both employed by the Boeing Company. They both began working at Boeing in 2006 as reliability and maintainability engineers. Currently, Stacia primarily supports the F/A18 aircraft platform. Juanita has supported both U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force weapon platforms. Juanita said they both work daily to ensure that Boeing products are “reliable, effective and safe to support the needs of Boeing customers.”

As active members of the St. Louis Gateway Chapter of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), they volunteer with the PreCollege Initiative program. In addition, they have served as mentors to junior engineers, volunteered for First Robotics and scholarship events, worked the MLK Minority Science Showcase and mentored youth offenders at the St. Louis Juvenile Detention Center.

The sisters also volunteer with various initiatives through Boeing, the St. Louis Alumni Chapter of their alma mater Tennessee State University, and the United Way of Greater St. Louis.

“We both enjoy giving back to our community and working with children to help encourage their greatness,” Stacia said.

“Volunteering has a ripple effect. Whether you can give just a few hours one Saturday or commit to every Saturday for a year, you will positively impact someone and in turn that person will positively impact someone else. That cycle continues, and your reach is far greater than you could ever imagine.”

“Many people have played a huge part in who we both have become,” Juanita said, “and

the community

we want to be able to give that back a hundred-fold.”

Their parents, John and Edwina Graham, created an environment for the girls growing up in Marietta, GA that exposed them to people in STEM-related fields. Their father is an engineer, but he did not push them into his field. Their parents did enroll the girls in several summer programs focused on science and technology at a local university.

The Engineering Concepts Institute at Tennessee State University had the most impact. It was a five-week, intensive engineering camp geared towards incoming freshmen that gave students a taste of what they could expect as engineering majors. Prior to attending that institute, the sisters had planned on going into the medical field.

“We always had a passion for science,” Stacia said, “but never translated that passion into the possibility of becoming an engineer.” For this reason, they are both advocates of exposing students to science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) at an early age in the hopes of sparking an interest.

Once they chose engineering, however, the work was a challenge.

“The program was rigorous, and there were many times when we both thought we were in over our heads,” Juanita said. “We each faced different challenges, but found support in one another, our family and classmates. Our faith kept us committed to our goals and we found the strength to keep going and press forward.”

Juanita and Stacia Graham, identical twin sisters from Marietta, GA, are both employed by the Boeing Company as reliability and maintainability engineers.

Financial Focus

By Veronica Coleman Investments

Asked what advice they would offer young women considering entering the engineering field, Stacia said, “You can do it! Don’t let statistics or anything else tell you otherwise. There are many opportunities within the field of engineering, and your perspective is greatly needed.”

Juanita said, “Many women have paved the way for the next generation of young women to follow their dreams. Aim high, believe in yourself, ask for help along the way, remain focused and don’t stop until you get there.”

Ronald Moore, the NSBE Pre-Collegiate Initiative director, said he is struck by these young professionals’ commitment to being a force for positive change.

“Many engineers in our community have the attitude that I got mine, you get yours,” Moore said. “Others go out once a year, speak to a group of youths and think that they have made an impact. To make an impact on the community and the lives of children, you have to have constant, longterm mentorship to help our youth achieve their academic goals.”

Even though it’s only February, college financial aid officers are already gathering documents, crunching numbers and otherwise working to determine grants for the school year that starts this coming fall. If you have children you plan on sending to college, how will your own savings and investments affect their chances of getting financial aid?

The answer depends not only on how much money you have, but also where you keep it. Most colleges base their aid calculations on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which currently counts up to 5.64 percent of certain parent-owned assets in determining federal or state aid. By contrast, FAFSA counts up to 20 percent of a child’s assets, such as an UGMA or UTMA account. So, what parent-owned assets are counted when determining a student’s need for financial aid? They include savings and checking accounts, nonretirement investment accounts and other types of assets. You do not have to report retirement accounts — such as traditional or

before your first child heads off to college, you may want to contact the financial aid office at a local school to ask questions about FAFSA, scholarships, loans and

NEWSPAPER IN EDUCATION

Planting the Seeds for Success!

Nutrition Challenge:

Look through the food ads in today’s newspaper and plan a healthy dinner menu for your family using what you find. Consider earlier lessons regarding

Exercise

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

Take advantage of the many teacher programs we offer at the Zoo to supplement your students’ classroom experience. The Zoo Outreach Program offers instructors who can bring live animals to YOUR classroom. We offer a variety of teacher kits you can check out, and we offer other resources (videos, books, etc.) FREE for you from our library. We even designed a cool poster you can hang in the classroom!

We’re here to help you succeed, and there are even scholarships available. Just visit stlzoo.org/teachers or call us at (314) 646-4544 to learn more.

Healthy Kids Kids

serving sizes, variety and nutrition. List all of the items for your meal and categorize by food group (dairy, protein, fruits, etc.).

Present your “meal” to your classmates. Now, as a class, determine which meal would be the most delicious… and nutritious!

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

stretch your arms and legs again, and continue with reduced speed movements until your heart rate begins to slow down.

Where do you work? I work at Christian Hospital. Where did you go to school? I attended Bishop Njenga Girls High School in Kenya and attained an associate’s degree in nursing from Barnes Jewish School of Nursing in St. Louis.

It’s important that before you embark on any kind of exercise to remember two things: warm up and cool down. Start with some slow stretches and movement (like walking) to increase your heart rate a little. Warm up for a good five minutes before increasing your heart rate.

Secondly, when you are finished with any kind of strenuous (very active) exercise, take some time to cool down. You can slowly

Last week we discussed ways to prevent a home fire. Today we’re going to talk about what to do if you do get caught in a fire.

It helps to have a plan!

> It’s important that you have a family meeting to prepare for such an emergency. Decide ahead of time which doors/windows would be the safest ways to escape from different parts of your home.

This warm-up and recovery period is important for your heart health. It also helps to reduce the amount of muscle pulls and strains.

Learning Standards: HPE 2, HPE 5, NH 1

> Also, decide on a “Meeting Spot” in your yard so that you all know when the whole family is safe.

> And remember — if you have a fire, call 911 from a neighbor’s home. Don’t stay in your house to make the call.

> And once you are out, don’t go back in for any reason until you’re told by the fire fighters that it’s safe.

Learning Standards: HPE 5, NH 5

What does a registered nurse at Christian Hospital do? I take care of sick people by giving them medications. I assess their lungs and abdomen by use of a stethoscope and document the results in the computer. I also talk to a lot of doctors regarding my patients.

Why did you choose this career? I chose to be a nurse because I have a chance to help people who are sick feel better. I go to work each day knowing that I could change somebody’s life for the better.

What is your favorite part of the job you have? I get a chance to meet unique people every day including the

Go to http://www.stlamerican. com/newspaper_in_education/ and download our Weekly Fitness Challenge Journal page. Keep track of your positive daily health choices and earn rewards!

patients as well as my coworkers, and this gives me a sense of family. This job also gives me pride in knowing that I can bring change to people’s lives. I’m proud to be a nurse!

CLASSROOM SPOTLIGHT

The school is in the St. Louis Public School district. Photo:

SCIENCE STARS

AFRICAN AMERICAN ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONICS ENGINEER AND EDUCATOR:

Akintunde Akinwande

Akintunde Akinwande was born in Nigeria in 1957. He was born in Offa in Kwara State, which is located in the southwestern region of the country. Akinwande attended St. Marks Primary School, then the Government College Ibadan, and the University of Ife in Nigeria. It was at this university that he earned his bachelor’s degree in electrical and electronics engineering in 1978. Akinwande then moved to the United States where he attended Stanford University and earned his master’s and doctorate degrees in electrical engineering.

SCIENCE CORNER How Do Flat Screen TVs Work?

Akintunde Akinwande is credited with improving the resolution and clarity of flat screen televisions. Have you ever wondered how flat screen TVs work? This particular type of TV was developed because the earlier models of televisions used cathode ray tubes, which projected the images inside the screen. Although they were effective, they were big and bulky, sometimes almost as wide as they were long. The flat screen design not only takes up less space, but it allows for different options, such as hanging on the wall like a picture. There are two main subcategories of flat screen televisions: plasma and LCD. Plasma televisions use xenon and neon gas in their screen, which glows when connected to electricity. Thousands of tiny plasma cells on the screen contain these gases. They provide a mixture of red, green, and blue lights when lit by electricity. The inside of the TV contains software which

regulates the precise mixture of lights to ensure the image is clear. Since plasma TVs must light every individual cell within their matrix, they use more power than other TVs which use a single lamp to light the screen.

LCD stands for “liquid crystal display.” A series of cells is filled with liquid crystal and pressed between two pieces of clear material to form the screen. Film transistors send power, which cause them to filter light in a precise wavelength. A white-light lamp projected behind it works with the transistors to perfect the image. By shifting the wavelengths of the liquid crystal, the light is filtered into different colors, which creates the image onscreen. LCD TVs weigh much less and consume considerably less power than a plasma TV.

Learning Standards: I can read nonfiction text to find the main idea of a reading passage.

SCIENCE EXPERIMENT

Computer scientists use codes when working with the computer. In this experiment, you will use a mirror to create a code to communicate with your friend.

Materials Needed:

Pen or Pencil • Paper • Mirror • Partner

Procedure:

q Think of a secret message you’d like to send and write it on a piece of paper.

w Next, hold a mirror up to your message. Place the mirror on its edge on the paper right next to your message.

e Now look in the mirror, and copy what you see onto a new piece of paper. This will be the secret message that you send.

MATH CONNECTION

If you are going to study computer science, you will learn about the binary number system.

The binary number system is a base-2 number system. This means it only has two numbers: 0 and 1. Binary numbers are very useful in electronics and computer systems. Digital electronics can easily work with this number system.

the U.S., putting these fields among the fastest growing occupational fields.

r Give the message to your friend and see if he/ she can figure out what it says. To read your secret message, your partner will have to hold the message up to a mirror and then look in the mirror to see what it says.

Think About It: Mirror writing makes a great secret code because the message looks really different in the mirror than it does in real life. Most letters look like they got flipped inside out — but some letters, like “O,” look exactly the same as their mirror images. You can see an example of mirror writing on ambulances. The word “ambulance” is often written so that drivers can see the word the right way around when they look in their rearview mirrors.

For More Computer Science Activities, Visit: http://csunplugged.org/activities.

Learning Standards: I can follow sequential directions to complete a task. I can analyze results.

Binary numbers only use the numbers 1 and 0. In a binary number each “place” represents a power of 2. For example: Use the binary number system to solve these problems.

Ex: 10+10 = 4, if using the binary number system. 10+1= ______________________

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

According to “Computing in the Core,” exposing students to computer science education in grades K-12 gives them critical thinking skills needed for their success in the 21st century, and for strengthening the workforce.

In 2011, 19 percent of Advanced Placement (AP) computer science test takers were women, even though women represented 56 percent of all AP test takers. In 2011, only 25 percent of computer scientists were female and only 3 percent were female and African American.

After earning his PhD, Akinwande moved to Bloomington, Minnesota, to work at Honeywell Technology Center as a staff scientist. While there, he developed thin-film-edge field emitter arrays. In 1995, he joined the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) faculty in the Computer Science department. He was a visiting professor at the Cambridge University engineering department. In 2002, he held a fellowship at Churchill College in England. Akinwande has worked as a program manager at the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), with research focusing on flat panel display technology and wide bandgap semiconductors. He is known for his techniques to increase brightness and resolution in flat panel displays.

Akinwande earned Honeywell’s H.W. Sweatt Award in 1989 for his technical work on the DFT processor chip. In 1996, he received the National Science Foundation’s Career Award. He has written over 100 journal publications and is chair of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Nanotechnology Council.

Discuss: What was the most interesting thing you learned about Dr. Akinwande? Flat panel displays are becoming more common in society. If you could make an invention that would improve on an already existing appliance (such as TV or radio), what would you enhance, how would you make it better? Name another appliance or tool that has been upgraded in recent years. How has it been changed? What new features does the improvement bring? Are there any disadvantages to the changes?

Learning Standards: I can read a biography about a person who has made an impact in science, technology, and mathematics.

MAP CORNER

Use the newspaper to complete these review activities to sharpen your skills for the MAP test.

Activity One — Local Economy: Find a newspaper story about, or an ad for, a new business in the area. Identify the goods/service it will provide and the effects it will have on the local economy. Then, find a newspaper reference to an area business that is closing. Who will the closing impact and what effects will it have on the local economy?

Activity Two —

Advertising: Find the advertisements in your newspaper. Identify the adjectives in an ad. Next, come up with a list of other adjectives that could have been used. Mark out the adjectives in an ad and see how it “reads” without the adjectives and draw conclusions.

Learning Standards:

I can use the newspaper to find information. I can identify goods and services offered by local businesses. I can identify adjectives and use them effectively.

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

Monroe Elementary School 3rd grade teacher

Kristen Hutchison does a water experiment with students Aariyah Bowman, Samuel Williams, and Anyha Martin, all 9, for a STEM project.

Photo courtesy MIT.

Hudson running for STLCC seat

The EYE is elated to see Redditt Hudson make another run for public service. Hudson, the former ACLU staffer and current NAACP field organizer, has filed for the St. Louis Community College Board of Trustees in Subdistrict 1. His only opponent is another African-American man, Theodis Brown Sr., chief of the Castlepoint Fire Protection Association.

Subdistrict 1 includes the Hazelwood, Ferguson/Florissant, Riverview Gardens, Jennings, Pattonville, Ritenour, University City, Normandy, Clayton and Ladue school districts.

It’s an important position. The St. Louis Community College, with a budget of $227.1 million, impacts more African Americans than any institution of higher education in the region; 35 percent of its 24,000 students are African Americans. By comparison, some 17.5 percent of the University of Missouri – St. Louis’ 12,000 students are African Americans.

The Board of Trustees governs this system with its budget of a quarterbillion dollars. We saw, in the rubout of Chancellor Myrtle Dorsey, that a board majority can switch directions at the college in an instant – for good or ill. Dorsey took her settlement and ran, but the problems she was beginning to address – and many others – remain. Now more than ever, this board needs community-minded leaders.

who will adapt to the realities of the boardroom.

Can he run and win a campaign?

That is what he needs to prove now.

He bit off far more than he could chew in the 2012 Democratic primary for state Senate District 13, when the much more experienced Gina Walsh nearly doubled his vote total, winning 13,733 to 7,854.

In Brown, Hudson again faces a more politically experienced opponent, though in this case his opponent mostly has experienced defeat. Brown is a former St. Ferdinand Township committeeman, but he has run for the St. Louis Community College Board of Trustees six times – in 1994, 1996, 2002, 2006, 2008 and 2012 – and lost six times.

They are running for an open seat. The election is April 8.

3-way race in 4

Hudson is a proven battler for the community’s better interests. He has been at the forefront of campaigns to call attention to police brutality, criminal conditions in St. Louis jails and prosecutorial misconduct in the St. Louis circuit courts. He will have to dial down his intensity a little to combat entrenched problems in a college, which is a different sort of problem than the problems on the streets which Hudson (himself, a former cop) has mostly battled to date. But he is an able and intelligent man

Subdistrict 4 – which includes the school districts of Parkway, Lindbergh, Mehlville, Rockwood, Valley Park, Meramec Valley, Hancock Place and small portions of Jefferson and Franklin counties – has a three-way race. Incumbent Libby Fitzgerald, a white woman who played a key role in eliminating Dorsey, has two opponents, both black men. Rodney Gee is a principal for financial advisor diversity performance for Edward Jones (and the 2013 St. Louis American Foundation Corporate Executive of the Year). Daniel Henderson is president of Henderson’s Electric LLC. Henderson is a working man with no previous political experience. Gee is a corporate executive who serves as the president of the St. Louis Community College Foundation Board of Directors and is well schooled in the internal politics of the college.

As a retired associate professor in counseling at St. Louis Community College-Forest Park and past board chair, Fitzgerald is as entrenched in

this dysfunctional system as could be. But in a subdistrict with a large majority of white voters, it would be a major upset for her to lose a race against two black men, regardless of their qualifications for changing and improving the institution. This election also is April 8.

Dorsey lost her contract in a 3-3 vote. Fitzgerald was joined in her opposition to Dorsey by Hattie Jackson and Joan McGivney

Board majority up for grabs

The Beacon and St. Louis Public Radio did a lengthy report on the election for contested seats on the Ferguson-Florissant school board. Two of three incumbents who voted to axe Superintendent Art McCoy Jr. are running for re-election in April, with three opponents groomed because of their support for McCoy.

Incumbents Paul Morris, president of the board, and Rob Chabot, board secretary, filed for another term. A third incumbent, vice president Chris Martinez, is not seeking re-election. Morris and other board members have refused to discuss reasons for placing McCoy on leave. They have said the action is not related to McCoy’s active support for student transfers and was not racially motivated. McCoy is AfricanAmerican, as is 78 percent of the Ferguson-Florissant student body. No

Redditt Hudson knocking on doors during his 2012 campaign for state Senate, which he lost. Hudson is running for the St. Louis Community College Board of Trustees in Subdistrict 1 on the April 8 ballot.

hearing scheduled for Feb. 24. Under his contract, which was renewed earlier this year to run through 2016, he is paid $217,644 a year. Also on the April 8 ballot are LaWanda Wallace, Kimberly Benz and Larry Thomas Anonymous strikes Dooley

current members of the school board are black. Five other candidates also are on the April 8 ballot. Three of them – F. Willis Johnson Jr., Donna PauletteThurman and James Savala – were recruited to run by the pro-McCoy group Citizens’ Task Force on Excellence in Education. All three are black.

Alfred Long Sr., a spokesman for the group, told The Beacon, “It’s a referendum on mismanagement of Dr. McCoy and also how that affects the students.”

Paulette-Thurman, a former principal in the district, told The Beacon that during the furor over McCoy’s removal, people kept coming up to her saying that somebody ought to do something. She decided to try to be that somebody.

Savala, a parent in the district, told The Beacon he had heard what he called the cries of children in the district about what was happening, and “those cries have not been answered.”

“The candidates said they wanted to make sure to maintain student achievement, stabilize the administration, restore trust and transparency and make sure they are accountable to residents of FergusonFlorissant,” The Beacon reported.

If the three seats at stake in April are captured by pro-McCoy candidates, the new members plus the one incumbent who sided with McCoy, Paul Schroeder, would make up a majority of the board.

As for McCoy, he has a closed

The Post ran a new sword through County Executive Charlie A. Dooley, based on anonymous sources that had been quoted by KMOX. These anonymous sources, allegedly patronage workers in St. Louis County government, allegedly looked at their hands during an after-work meeting at a restaurant in Clayton while Dooley allegedly tried to put the touch on his patronage workers for a 1 percent donation to his campaign. Dooley faces a spirited challenge in the Democratic primary by County Councilman Steve Stenger These anonymous sources allegedly also had to sit still while Dooley ranted and cussed about Stenger. The report ended with a tart comment from Stenger spokesman Ed Rhode – former flack for Mayor Francis G. Slay – avowing that when Stenger is boss he will never put the touch on patronage workers like that.

Burying Eddie Roth

Speaking of Rhode’s old boss, Slay shook up his shop last week. Richard Gray, former executive director of the St. Louis Gateway Classic Sports Foundation and former president of the St. Louis police board, is the new director of Public Safety. Fred Wessels, a former alderman still enjoying the benefits of not running against Slay when aldermanic President Lewis Reed had him running scared, is director of the Community Development Administration.

Mary Ellen Ponder is moving from deputy chief of staff to director of Operations, relieving former Post editorial writer Eddie Roth, who was guilty of doing a too-convincing impersonation of Jeff Rainford whenever meeting the press or public. Eddie is being buried in the Charles Bryson-esque depths as deputy chief of staff for program implementation.

Farewell to Amiri Baraka

Photos by Eugene B. Redmond

Amiri Baraka (1934-2014), co-founder of the Black Arts Movement, was remembered at a wake Friday, January 17 at Metropolitan Baptist Church and at a homegoing service Saturday, January 18 at Newark Symphony Hall, both in his hometown of Newark, NJ. More than 1,000 mourners, including many artists of worldwide fame, attended his memorials. Baraka passed January 9, 2014 in his native Newark, N.J., at the age of 79. Baraka was honored at his homegoing

St. Louis friends travel to Newark for homegoing of Black Arts icon See BARAKA,

by a number of artists and activists from St. Louis, including jazz composer and saxophonist Oliver Lake, Nation of Islam official Akbar Muhammad, and poets Quincy Troupe and Eugene B. Redmond. Redmond, who is also a widely published photographer, documented the services for The American Baraka was a longtime and active trustee of the Eugene B. Redmond Writers Club, which will honor the departed legend with a tribute 6 p.m.

Redmond

What I did on Super Tuesday, 1988

Part

Swap,’ a political memoir by

Virvus Jones

By Virvus Jones For The St. Louis American

In March of 1988, a statewide presidential primary was held in Missouri to select the Democratic and Republican candidates for president. The three major candidates on the ballot were Rev. Jesse Jackson, Massachusetts Governor George Dukakis and 3rd District Congressman Richard Gephardt from St. Louis. On this same day, eight other states were holding presidential primaries on what was being called Super Tuesday. Although Congressman Gephardt won the popular vote and the lion’s share of the Democratic delegates in Missouri, he lost the predominately black 1st Congressional District and –surprisingly – the city of St. Louis to Jesse Jackson.

I was completing my second year as St. Louis city assessor, having been appointed by Mayor Vincent Schoemehl in April 1986 to replace Gwen Giles, who had died of lung cancer in March 1986.

As was my routine, on this Friday morning after Super Tuesday I attended the weekly session of the St.

Louis Board of Aldermen. I had been a member of the board for four years, from 1981 to 1985, and as assessor I tried to attend every weekly meeting to listen to the political gossip and scuttlebutt. I would also make myself available to the aldermen to answer any constituent questions that they may have regarding assessments. The assessor was responsible for assessing all the real and personal property in the city of St. Louis. On this particular Friday morning,

my boss, Mayor Schoemehl, was in attendance. As he was leaving the board chambers, he waived his hand, beckoning me to come to him. I quickly walked towards him. He was standing near a large wooden door that led to the Board of Aldermen chambers. When I got to the door, he leaned over and told me he needed to talk to me about something and asked me to walk back to his office with him. I immediately told him yes and followed him as he left the chambers

‘Post-race’but still black

BlackAnthology stages new show at Edison Theatre

By Chris King

Of The St. Louis American

America is post-Civil Rights Movement, post-Black Nationalist, post-irst black president. Yet a version of every problem that provoked the movements for civil rights, AfricanAmerican self-suficiency and black political empowerment remains stubbornly – and dangerously – present. This is the 21st century cultural moment probed in “Post-,” the new

production by Black Anthology, which plays at Washington University’s Edison Theatre 7 p.m. Friday, February 7 and Saturday, February 8. According to organizers, “Post” evaluates “the effects of microaggressions and the continued relevance of black cultural organizations in an era of ‘post-race.’” “Post-” is produced by Kendall Maxwell, a sophomore at Washington

See PLAY, B4

and walked through the City Hall corridors to Room 200, the Mayor’s office. When we got to his office, Schoemehl started a conversation with his press secretary leaving me alone in his office to try and figure out what he wanted to talk to me about. Was it a constituency question? A budgetary issue?

See VIRVUS, B3

Daisy Bates and others we should remember

It amazes me how much focus there is on African-American history in the months of January and February, with programs and events relating to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s holiday and African-American History Month. It seems to be almost sacrilegious or disrespectful for some descendants of slaves not to deliberate on these months to celebrate our legacy and spotlight contributions of past and present men and women of color. But how much are we missing by limiting our celebrations to approximately 60 days? There is so much history and so many people who have sacrificed and died for us to be able to appreciate the limited amount of freedom and respect that we observe. What

Black Anthology (seen here in last year’s production) will perform “Post-” at Washington University’s Edison Theatre 7 p.m. Friday, February 7 and Saturday, February 8.

See BERNIE, B4

Jazz composer and saxophonist Oliver Lake, a St. Louis native, mourned the poet with his horn

Photo courtesy of Eugene B.

Vincent Schoemehl appointed Virvus Jones as St. Louis city assessor in April 1986

Daisy Bates was the Arkansas branch president of the NAACP who helped to integrate Little Rock public schools after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled racial segregation of schools was unconstitutional.

Columnist Bernie Hayes

Virvus Jones

Congresswoman Waters celebrates MLK

Kinloch native stresses importance of education

American staff

Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA-43), a native if Kinloch, recently honored the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. during a multi-faith event in Los Angeles, hosted by the Second Baptist Church, under the leadership of Pastor William Epps and the Political Clergy Council, led by Minister Tonette Henry. The event, entitled “A Tribute to a King,” also featured California Attorney General Kamala Harris.

Congresswoman Waters noted quotes by Dr. King emphasizing the importance of education and its relevance today. She voiced her concerns about the District 1 vacant seat on the Los Angeles Unified School District Board following the death of longtime member Marguerite LaMotte and the fact that the board did not utilize an opportunity to appoint an experienced and committed educator, Dr. George McKenna, to replace her.

“We must refocus ourselves on education and support the individual chosen to represent the children in our community,” Waters said. She went on to remind the audience about how Dr. King inspired everyone to seek educational opportunities as a means to allowing the next generation to reach its full

potential, ensuring the longterm success of our nation’s economy and people. Attorney General Kamala Harris also discussed education and its importance in preventing incarceration as a part of her remarks.

“Fifty years ago, President Lyndon B. Johnson declared a War on Poverty and introduced initiatives in the hope of improving education and access to employment and economic opportunities, but there is still much work to be done,” Waters said.

“Economic inequality and the racial wealth gap remain in place as barriers to progress. Dr. King envisioned a better nation where equality would be a reality. His vision and dream are still alive today, and we must work to ensure that equality and equal access to opportunity are available for all.”

Centene Corporation presents

BLACK HISTORY

How Their Life Changed Yours

Dr. Charles R. Drew

Life

Born in 1904, Charles Drew grew up in Washington, D.C. He won an athletic scholarship and attended nearby colleges and medical schools for over a decade. During this time he received his Masters of Surgery and consistently ranked among the top of his class. By the time he graduated Drew became the first African-American with a Doctor of Medical Science degree. As news of the brutalities of World War II reached the United States a group of doctors organized the first-ever “blood bank.” A blood bank is the storage of donated blood and, in this case, used on soldiers and civilians wounded in Britain. Drew directed these efforts and coordinated blood donations of thousands of Americans.

How His Life Changed Yours

Like many “irsts” from the AfricanAmerican community, Drew paved a path for others to follow and broke through one of the many color barriers of his time. His work with the Blood for Britain project led to the creation of the American Red Cross Blood Bank, an organization that continues to provide transfusions to those in need. Drew’s work also inspired many Sickle Cell Blood Drives that are an important part in the ight against this disease.

February in black history

February 1

1865 John S. Rock becomes the first AfricanAmerican to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court.

1902 Playwright, poet, author Langston Hughes is born

1960 First major sit-in to protest segregation is held at Woolworth’s store in Greensboro, N.C.

1978 Harriet Tubman becomes the first African-American woman honored on a U.S. stamp

February 2

2

1892 Carter Williams patents the awning

1989 Lt. Cmdr. Evelyn Fields is first AfricanAmerican woman to command a ship

February 3

1870 15th Amendment is ratified, giving African Americans the right to vote

1956 Autherine Lucy is the first AfricanAmerican student at the University of Alabama

February 4

1867 Peabody Fund is established to aid African- American education

1822 Free AfricanAmericans settle in Liberia, West Africa.

1913 Rosa Parks is born

1986 The U.S. Postal Service issues a stamp honoring Abolitionist and Women’s Right Activist Sojourner Truth

February 5

1934 Baseball great Hank Aaron

is born

1955 Louis R. Lautier is the first African-American admitted to the National Press Club

February 6

1867 Robert Tanner Jackson is the first African-American to receive a degree in dentistry

1993 Arthur Ashe, tennis player, humanitarian and activist, dies

February 7

1867 Frederick Douglass meets with President Andrew Johnson

1883 Ragtime pianist and composer Eubie Blake is born

1926 Negro History Week, originated by Carter G. Woodson, observed for the first time

February 8

1951 Pvt. Edward Cleaborn, Memphis soldier, receives the Distinguished Service Cross

1968 Three students at South Carolina State are killed during a segregation protest in

Orangeburg, S.C.

February 9

1944 Alice Walker, Pulitzer Prize-winning author, is born

1964 Arthur Ashe becomes the first AfricanAmerican on a U.S. Davis Cup team

1971 Satchel Paige is the first Negro League player elected to major league baseball’s Hall of Fame

1995 Dr. Bernard Harris Jr. becomes the first African American to work in space

February 10

1780 Capt. Paul Cuffe and six other African-Americans of Massachusetts petition for the right to vote

1927 Leontyne Price, internationally acclaimed opera singer, is born

1989 Ronald H. Brown becomes the first African-American chairman of the Democratic National Committee.

1992 Alex Haley, Pulitzer Prize-winning author of the epic book Roots dies

February 11

1783 Jarena Lee, the first woman to preach in an AME church, is born

1977 Clifford Alexander, Jr. is confirmed as the first African-American Secretary of the Army

February 12

1909 NAACP is founded in New York City

Courtesy of Hot Topics Hot Serials

Pastor William Epps, California Attorney General Kamala Harris, Congresswoman Maxine Waters and Minister Tonette Henry.

John S. Rock

Luther Boykins convened the January meeting. Luther had also attended De Andreas.

In addition to being an early Schoemehl supporter, he was also a paid political operative responsible for orchestrating Schoemehl’s North Side support base.

Vince said that the meeting

As

I was with him in his office and asked her to join us. Asking Nancy to join us provoked another thousand thoughts about what Vince wanted to talk to me about that had to be done right now Normally, it took two weeks to get on his schedule. The only thing that I could think of was either a complaint or maybe some political favor one of his important supporters wanted from the assessor’s office.

Nancy was in his office in less than a minute. Nancy Rice was Vince’s political operative. Her official title was executive secretary to the mayor, the only exempted or patronage office in the mayor’s office. All of the other positions on the mayor’s staff were civil servants. Civil servants were prohibited by the City Charter from participating in any political activity while on the city payroll.

Nancy had Irish red hair and bore the nickname “Red Sonja.” She was also the niece of one of the most powerful Irish politicians in the history of St. Louis politics, Jack Dwyer. Dwyer had been committeeman of the 4th Ward and city treasurer. He also served as the chairman of the St. Louis City Democratic Central Committee.

After exchanging pleasantries, Vince motioned for us to go and sit on a couch and love seat in what could be described as a lounging area of his office. He asked me how I was doing and told me that he had heard nothing but good things about my performance as assessor. Nancy nodded her head, and Vince then asked me what my future plans were.

I reminded him of a conversation I had with him several months before about becoming the deputy assessor when Lowell Jackson, the current deputy, retired. Lowell was retiring in June and I was interested in getting his job, which was in the civil service and thus more secure.

Nancy responded immediately, telling me that she could not believe that I was not interested in getting back into elected politics. She said she thought that my future in politics was bright. I thanked her and then reiterated my desire to pursue a civil service career. I told her that my daughter was a going to be a junior in high school in September and I needed a job that was more secure to help me prepare for her college tuition costs. They both nodded their heads, acknowledging my comments, but it was clear from the looks on their faces that this was not the answer they were looking for.

Vince then started telling me about a meeting he had with 1st District Congressman William L. Clay in January of that year at Kim Tucci’s house. Tucci was one of Vince’s earliest and strongest supporters. He always bragged to black people about how he taught Vince at De Andreas, an integrated Catholic high school in North St. Louis. He, along with John Ferrara and Mike Fresta, were joint owners of the Pasta House Co.

Vince said that Tucci and

was convened to heal a rift that had developed between Schoemehl and Bill Clay in the summer of 1986, when Schoemehl filed candidates against several Clay allies.

Schoemehl had encouraged Judy Raker to run against state Senator John Bass; Chester Hines for state representative

against Clay’s son, William Lacy Clay Jr.; Louis Hamilton against Circuit Clerk Freeman Bosley Jr.; and Marvin Steele against License Collector Billie Boykins.

Jack Keane, another ally of Schoemehl, had filed as a candidate against Collector of Revenue Ronald Leggett.

Schoemehl had also convinced Al Jackson, former assistant director of the St. Louis Housing Authority and a candidate for comptroller in 1985, to file for collector of revenue with the hope that Jackson, an African American, would split the black vote.

To be continued in next week’s Black History Month section.

This article is excerpted from Virvus Jones’ forthcoming memoir, “The Swap.” This version of events reflects the author’s personal memories of events in which he was a direct participant.

Virvus Jones

BLAck HiStory montH ActivitieS

Through February 7, Rethinking Black History Through Art with Ron Young, St. Louis Public Library – Julia Davis Branch, 4415 Natural Bridge. For more information, call (314) 5390343.

Fri., Feb. 7, 7 p.m., The Black Rep presents Witnesses to Freedom. Library Headquarters, 1640 S. Lindbergh Blvd., 63131. For more information, visit www.slcl.org/black-historycelebration.

Feb. 8, 1 p.m., In honor of Black History Month, Sabayet’s sister organization, New African Paradigm has partnered with the Missouri History Museum to present a FREE screening of Hidden Colors 2 with a panel discussion following, Missouri History Museum, 5700 Lindell in Forest Park. For more information, visit www.sabayet. org.

Sun., Feb. 9, 1:30 p.m., Community Women Against Hardship presents A Jazz Brunch: In Celebration of Black History Month.

Jerome “Scrooge” Harris, drums; Freddie Washington, saxophone; Bob DeBoo, bass; Anita Jackson, vocals. With special guest Willie Pickens. The Bistro in Grand Center, 3536 Washington Ave., 63103. For more information, call (314) 289-7523 or visit www. cwah.org.

Sun., Feb. 9, 2 p.m., The St. Louis Public Library presents its Black History Month Keynote Address by Wil Haygood, author of the The Butler. Central Library, 1301 Olive St., 63103. For more information, call (314) 2066779 or visit www.slpl.org.

Mon., Feb. 10, 6:30 p.m., Black History Month

Library Headquarters, 1640 S. Lindbergh Blvd., 63131. For more information, visit www.slcl.org/black-historycelebration.

Feb. 15 – Feb 28, Gitana Productions’ Global Education through the Arts program will present “Living the Dream: 50 Years and Beyond.” The 45-minute music, drama and dance performance promoting nonviolence and acceptance are scheduled throughout the region during February, Black History Month, to celebrate the messages of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. For full schedule, locations and more information, visit www.gitana-inc.org or call Gitana Productions at (314) 721-6556.

Thurs., Feb. 20, 6:30 p.m., Westminster Christian Academy presents Night of the Arts: A Celebration of Unity: Black History Month 2014. To honor and celebrate the achievements of black Americans throughout history, Westminster will host a Black History Month event featuring Westminster music, drama, and poetry students. 800 Maryville Centre Dr., 63017. For more information, visit www.wcastl. org.

black-history-celebration.

Through Feb. 25, 6:30 p.m., Created Equal Film Series, St. Louis Public Library –Central Branch, 1301 Olive. For more information, call (314) 539-0315.

Tuesdays in February, 6:30 p.m., Black History Month Film Series, St. Louis County Library – Mid County Branch, 7821 Maryland Ave. For more information, call (314) 9943300.

Through Feb. 28, Black History Month: African American Inventors, St. Louis County Library – Rock Road Branch, 10267 St. Charles Rock Rd. For more information, call (314) 994-3300.

Through Feb. 28, African Chairs Exhibit, St. Louis County Library – Rock Road Branch, 10267 St. Charles Rock Rd. For more information, call (314) 994-3300.

Through Feb. 28, Urban Landscape Art: The Birth of the Movement in the Inner Cities featuring Yemane Hughes, St. Louis Public Library – Divoll Branch, 4234 N. Grand. For more information, call (314) 5390315.

Celebration: Potato Chip Tasting, St. Louis County Library – Prairie Commons Branch, 915 Utz Lane. For more information, visit www.slcl.org/black-historycelebration.

Tues., Feb. 11, 7 p.m., African American History and Genealogy, St. Louis County Library – Cliff Cave Branch, 5430 Telegraph Rd. For more information, visit www.slcl.org/ black-history-celebration.

Wed., Feb. 12, 4:30 p.m., Black History Celebration: African Mask Workshop, St.

Louis County Library – Prairie Commons Branch, 915 Utz Lane. For more information, visit www.slcl.org/blackhistory-celebration.

Thurs., Feb. 13, 10 a.m., Harris Stowe State University’s Annual Black History Month Health Fair, HGA Lower Level Hallway, 3026 Laclede. For more information, call (314) 3405030.

Fri., Feb. 14, 7:30 p.m., Powell Symphony Hall presents Lift Every Voice: Black History Month

FEBRUARY 14

FRIDAY AT 7:30PM

Kevin McBeth, conductor Jennifer Holliday, vocalist and narrator St. Louis Symphony IN UNISON® Chorus

Featuring Broadway veteran Jennifer Holliday,

as

Chorus

Celebration starring the InUnison Chorus and featuring Jennifer Holiday This annual concert celebrates AfricanAmerican cultures and traditions that have influenced the history of St. Louis, as well as cities around the world. 718 N. Grand Blvd., 63103. For more information, visit www. stlsymphony.org.

Sat., Feb. 15, 7 p.m., St. Louis County Library presents Black History Celebration 2014 with featured speaker, Ayana Mathis. Ms. Mathis will be discussing “The Twelve Tribes of Hattie.”

PLAY

Continued from B1

University.

“Black Anthology is an integral part of this campus’ history that has brought the triumphs and trials of Washington University’s African-American community,” Maxwell said.

“The fact that it has remained a tradition over the past 25 years is a testament to its power and effectiveness as an emotionally moving and thought-provoking production. Being a part of the process has been a true blessing.”

“Post-” is written by Josh Aiken, a senior in the College of Arts & Sciences whose next stop is a Rhodes Scholarship to the University of Oxford in England.

“I have always wanted to give voice to marginalized communities, whether they

BERNIE

Continued from B1

is alarming is that studies show that African-American history is the least significant subject for American students, black and white, and our history books grossly distort history, and usually omit the story of our forefathers and of our culture. There are so many that had an influential hand in the course of not only our history but the history of this nation. Each January and February we hear of the involvement and contributions of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Fannie Lou Hamer, Medgar Evers, Daisy Bates, Booker T. Washington, Rosa Parks, Malcolm X, Stokley Carmichael or Kwame Ture, Ida B. Wells-Barnett, Marcus Garvey, Martin Delaney, Rev. Jesse Jackson, Rev. Dr. Ralph Abernathy, Rev. James Lawton, James Meredith, Angela Davis, Floyd McKissick and Dr. Mary

Sat., Feb. 22, 1 p.m., St. Louis County Library Black History Celebration 2014 presents Gift of Gospel Celebration. Lewis & Clark Branch, 9909 Lewis-Clark Blvd., 63136. For more information, visit www.slcl.org/ black-history-celebration.

Fri., Feb. 28, 7 p.m., St. Louis County Library Black History Celebration 2014 presents Set the Night to Music with Wendy Gordon & Friends. Florissant Valley Branch, 195 S. New Florissant Rd., 63031. For more information, visit www.slcl.org/

have been communities of color or LGBT communities,” Aiken said. “I have had the experience of being able to live openly and freely and to be who I am. Knowing that so many people can’t do that motivates me.”

Black Anthology was founded in 1989 by Marcia Hayes-Harris to provide a means of commemorating the history and progress of African Americans. Since its creation, the program was totally student-run, from script to set to costume design.

However, the show has evolved from performances of compilations centered on pertinent literature to a fulllength scripted play featuring music and dance performances.

It’s the university’s oldest student cultural production.

“I have served as Black Anthology’s faculty advisor for nine years, and it has been amazing to watch students develop an appreciation for the arts, both on stage and behind the scenes,” said Wilmetta

McLeod Bethune.

There are so many other historical figures who are not famous but who used their rights to freedom of speech and civil disobedience to contribute important thoughts and teachings to let us know that we are inheritors of a precious historical legacy.

There are remarkable historical speeches and actions of many great leaders we know nothing about because the textbooks exclude or neglect them, but there are authors who have dedicated themselves to revealing the truth.

We should read of Marita Bonner, who published short stories and essays from 1924 to 1941 in Opportunity, The Crisis, Black Life and other magazines.

We should read of Daisy Bates, who in 1952 became the Arkansas branch president of the NAACP. In 1954, when the U.S. Supreme Court ruled racial segregation of schools was unconstitutional, Bates and others worked to figure out how to integrate the Little Rock public schools.

Through Feb. 28, Collaborate Black History Art Display featuring Zuka Arts Guild, St. Louis Public Library – Cabanne Branch, 1106 N. Union. For more information, call (314) 5390315.

Through Feb. 28, Afrika Identity Lost and Found Art Exhibit featuring Kiarra Lynn Smith, St. Louis Public Library – Schlafly Branch, 225 N. Euclid. For more information, call (314) 5390315.

Toliver-Diallo, assistant dean of the University’s College of Arts & Sciences and senior lecturer.

“Watching the students brainstorm ideas, from the script through the final production, is a phenomenal treat to witness. We have addressed a myriad of themes over the years. Those instrumental in founding Black Anthology on Washington University’s campus will have a special appreciation of this year’s show.” Tickets for “Post-” are $10 for students and $12 for the general public. Tickets are available at the Edison Theatre Box Office, on the Danforth Campus of Washington University, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday. The box office also is open one hour prior to showtime, and tickets may be purchased online at edison. wustl.edu/tickets/.

We should read of Charles E. Cobb Jr., who from 1962-1967 served as a field secretary for the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) in Mississippi. He is a founding member of the Association of Black Journalists and wrote the book On the Road to Freedom, a Guided Tour of the Civil Rights Trail I hope that you will research these authors and others. We should understand their ideals and appreciate the work done by them, because we need to better demonstrate to our community and to the world what it is they are missing.

Please watch the Bernie Hayes TV program Saturday night at 10 p.m. and Friday morning at 9 a.m. and Sunday evenings at 5:30 p.m. on KNLC-TV Ch. 24. Follow me on Twitter: @berhay and view my blog at http:// berniehayesunderstands. blogspot.com/. I can be reached by fax at (314) 837-3369 or e-mail at: berhay@swbell.net.

Powell Symphony Hall presents Lift Every Voice: Black History Month Celebration starring the InUnison Chorus with special guest Jennifer Holiday.

By Melanie Adams

250 points to enter STL history

History Museum celebrates city’s 250th anniversary

The Missouri History Museum is excited to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the city of St. Louis with its new exhibit 250 in 250 opening on Friday, February 14. This free exhibit looks at 50 people, 50 places, 50 images, 50 moments and 50 objects that showcase the city’s history. The exhibit gives the city an opportunity to commemorate the men, women and events that have shaped St. Louis into the Midwestern metropolitan area it is today. While I could write a spirited debate about the 250 items on the list, I want you to visit the exhibit and make up your own mind. Since I won’t provide the list, I will talk a little about the selection process. It is important to note that the 50 people, places, images, moments and objects are not to be considered the most important pieces of St. Louis history, but rather a sampling of the richness, diversity and complexity of the region over the past 250 years.

The public had an opportunity last year to make suggestions on the museum’s website. In the object category, a viewer’s choice was selected and will be identified as such in the exhibit. In addition to the public’s list, the museum staff was also encouraged to recommend people. Once the lists were compiled, it had to be narrowed down to just 50 in each category. From a staff member’s perspective, I knew I had to be strategic and lobby for just a few things. I am happy to report my three made it to the final list. If you missed the opportunity to make suggestions on the website, all is not lost. There are two areas in the exhibit that will also allow you to submit your suggestions. One of the areas is the people section. There will be a space that allows you to vote for the 51st person. The person with the most votes each month will be included in the exhibit for that month. The second area for visitor input is the places section. Local artist Andy Cross is creating a wonderful chalkboard mural of all 50 places. There will be an area on the chalkboard for suggestions (either written or drawn) for the 51st place. While we encourage everyone to visit the museum to experience the exhibit, we also created a traveling banner show that includes one selection from each of the categories along with an introduction and conclusion banner. The banner shows are available free of charge for one month to churches, schools, community centers, etc. as a way of promoting the city’s 250th anniversary. For more information please contact Katie Moon at 314-3561-7395 or kmoon@mohistory.org.

Usually I would take the time to research and write

This St. Louis Browns uniform is the people’s choice among the 50 objects selected to represent St. Louis history in the Missouri History Museum’s new exhibit 250 in 250 , which opens Friday, February 14. This free exhibit looks at 50 people, 50 places, 50 images, 50 moments and 50 objects that showcase the city’s history to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the city of St. Louis.

Friday, February 14th

250 in 250 Exhibit Free • Opens at 10am

about the different African American-related people, places, images, moments and objects. I still may do that, but for the next few months, the museum’s outstanding Teens Make History exhibitors will be writing the content once a month for this column. They have already researched some of the history in the exhibit and are excited (ok, that might be a bit strong) about the opportunity to create a column each month. The teens’ columns will focus on individuals they interviewed about their role in St. Louis civil rights history. The museum kicks off the

BARAKA

Continued from B1

Tuesday, February 18 at the Sunshine Cultural Arts Center, 630 N. 59th St. in East St. Louis.

For more information on the February 18 celebration of Amiri Baraka in East St. Louis, call 618-650-3991 or email eredmon@siue.edu.

All photos courtesy of Eugene B. Redmond

Mourners formed a line outside the funeral

The poet’s name went up on the Apollo Theatre marquee

celebration weekend with family friendly activities and an opportunity to step inside a historic image with the help of our friends at Good Eye. These activities are free and will take place throughout the holiday weekend (including President’s Day, February 17). The exhibit is the museum’s present to the community on its 250th anniversary, and I hope you will take the time to visit and join the commemoration.

For more information on the programs please check out the museum’s website at www. mohistory.org

East St. Louis poet Eugene B. Redmond remembered his friend of more than 40 years

East St. Louis poet Eugene B. Redmond visited with Loretta Dumas (widow of author Henry Dumas) and others outside Newark Symphony Hall

Poet Sonia Sanchez salutes Baraka’s casket

Savion Glover taps in honor of the poet

Many sat in defiance so we can all stand with dignity.

Whether marching arm-and-arm, standing in silence or sitting in defiance, the American Civil Rights Movement has traveled millions of miles for just one goal – equality for everyone. At AARP, we also believe everyone deserves to live life to the fullest. As we celebrate Black History Month, we are proud to continue our commitment to helping everyone realize their own Real Possibilities

As part of our celebration of Black History Month, receive up to 25% off AARP membership when you join or renew during February. Help AARP continue standing for dignity and justice for all by visiting AARP.org/BlackHistory or calling 800-516-5845.

Real Possibilities is a trademark of AARP.

The truth and beauty of Alice Walker

Documentary of ‘Color Purple’ author airs this Friday

By Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American

From within the walls of a paper shack in Georgia came one of the most celebrated authors of contemporary American literature.

And as Alice Walker celebrates the milestone of her 70th birthday and the nation commemorates Black History Month, Thirteen’s American Masters series presents “Alice Walker: Beauty in Truth” this Friday, February 7. PBS viewers will be allowed an intimate portrait of Walker’s journey from the daughter of sharecroppers to a pioneering African-American “womanist” writer of international fame.

Much like the prose she crafted over the course of her 45-year writing career, Walker proves to be a vivid and complex subject for filmmaker Pratibha Parmar.

Interviews with Steven Spielberg, Danny Glover, Quincy Jones, Gloria Steinem, and Sapphire accentuate Walker’s frank self-portrait.

The child of sharecroppers, Walker’s brilliance and curiosity enabled her to transcend obstacles and circumstances – including race in the Jim Crow South and gender during the infancy of the women’s liberation movement.

She defied the status quo, with a willingness to gamble the freedoms her intellect afforded her for the sake of civil and human rights. The documentary illustrates a path forged by way of activism and an uncompromising approach to creative production.

She speaks of her childhood exploring her Eagleton, Ga. surroundings, knowing there was something bigger in store for her. She reflects on the peaks and valleys of the journey that took her further than anyone could have imagined. “Beauty in Truth” also manages to evoke the heartaches, struggles and sacrifices – both personal and professional – that ran parallel to her success.

In 1983 she made history as the first AfricanAmerican woman to win the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction for her novel The Color Purple. “Beauty in Truth” reminds viewers of the backlash from men of color regarding how black men are portrayed in the book and Steven Spielberg’s film adaptation.

Walker speaks about the experience of being

“Alice Walker: Beauty in Truth,” directed by Pratibha Parmar, premieres on PBS 8 p.m. CST Friday, February 7.

lauded by the literary community while being ostracized by many for portraying emotional, physical and sexual abuse at the hands of black men.

She reflects on her interracial marriage, which fell victim to the Civil Rights Movement. She speaks openly of her sexual freedom and dating women – most famously, folk singer Tracy Chapman.

She spares no intimate detail about her very public estrangement from her only daughter.

Viewers will feel her pain as she speaks of being blindsided by a Daily Mail article where Rebecca Walker claims that she felt abandoned as a child due to her mother’s focus on her work. Rebecca even claimed that her mother’s “fanatical feminist” views tore their family apart.

Walker unapologetically speaks of the pain and losses that came with every gain in her life –and no subject is off limits.

“Alice Walker: Beauty in Truth” premieres nationally on Friday, February 7 at 8 p.m. CST on PBS. Check local listings for details and visit http://www.pbs.org/americanmasters.

St Louis Community College

Saturday, Feb. 1

Honoring the Past to Plan the Future

3-5 p.m., Multipurpose Room

William J. Harrison Education Center

Author, St. Louis American columnist, and civil rights activist Jamala Rogers’ presentation will focus on the civil rights movement in St. Louis and the state of Missouri.

Organized by Angela Roffle: 314-763-6019

Monday, Feb. 3—Friday, Feb. 28

Road to Freedom: Dred Scott Exhibit

Instructional Resources Building (Library), 2nd Floor

STLCC-Florissant Valley

Hours: Monday-Thursday, 7:30 a.m.-9 p.m.; Friday, 7:30 a.m.-4.30 p.m.;

Saturday, 8 a.m.-4p.m.

Through images of documents, photographs and objects from the collection of the Missouri Historical Society, the Dred Scott Exhibit tells the story of St. Louis’ enslaved blacks and their quests for freedom.

Sponsored by David L. Underwood Library

Wednesday, Feb. 5

African-American Heritage Kick-Off Celebration

11 a.m.-1 p.m., Student Center, Multipurpose Room

STLCC-Florissant Valley

Keynote Speaker: Keith Ware, Campus Coordinator, African-American Male Initiative

· Re-enactment by Barnes Bradshaw, Missouri History Museum

· African Dance Troupe

· Musical Performances

Sponsored by Campus Life: 314-513-4294

Wednesday, Feb. 5

On a High Note

Performance by the Normandy High School Choir

Noon, Student Center Commons

STLCC-Meramec

Enjoy the beautiful melodic sounds of the Normandy High School Choir!

Organized by Rita Reinhardt: 314-984-7593

Thursday, Feb. 6

Honoring the Past to Plan the Future

11 a.m.-1 p.m., Cafe West

STLCC-Forest Park

Author, St. Louis American columnist, and civil rights activist Jamala Rogers’ presentation will focus on the civil rights movement in St. Louis and the state of Missouri.

Organized by Angela Roffle: 314-763-6019

Thursday, Feb. 6

Open Mic Night: Spoken Word

6:30-9 p.m.

Student Commons

STLCC-Wildwood

Students, staff and community members are invited to join us as we celebrate Black History Month! Perform your original Spoken Word or bring in a poem by a famous African-American writer. Brief original song and music is also welcome. Emcee Randy Hannah—a musician and an STLCC alum—will rock the house! He will share some of the history and importance of Spoken Word, and also will perform.

Organized by Stephanie Graham, Coordinator of Campus Life & College Transition: 636-422-2244

Wednesday, Feb. 12

You Are Worth the Support

11 a.m.-12:15 p.m., Student Center, Room 125

STLCC-Mermec

This presentation will focus on ‘Who YOU Are,’ and learning how to appreciate the person you have become, without having reservations! Presenter Javania Webb has demonstrated excellence by providing outreach to the LGBT and urban community. She also has provided services to the Relief Foundation; I’m Gay, Now What?; Big Brothers, Big Sisters; and St. Louis Crisis Nursery. Her passion is to help others free themselves from the chains that bind while steering them to a path of wholeness.

Organized by Rita Reinhardt: 314-984-7593

Thursday, Feb. 13

We’ve Got the Blues

9:30-10:30 a.m., Student Center, Multipurpose Room

STLCC-Florissant Valley

Learn about African-American blues artists from peer speakers through organized speeches, piano performances and video—and participate in the discussion!

Organized by Amy Brown-Marshall and Dr. Paul Higdon: 314-513-4995

Friday, Feb. 14

Healthy Relationship Seminar

11 a.m.-12:15 p.m., Student Center, Room 125

STLCC-Meramec

This seminar will serve as a discussion on how we choose a mate, build partnerships and experience relationships. The goal of this seminar is to leave participants with better clarity on why they make certain relationship choices. Presenter Latricia Buckner, MA, is an inspirational speaker, author and relationship coach.

Organized by Rita Reinhardt: 314-984-7593

Wednesday, Feb. 19

Lunch and Learn: Civil Rights in America

11 a.m.-12:15 p.m., Student Center, Multipurpose Room

STLCC-Florissant Valley

Dr. Linda Collins addresses the history of civil rights in the United States.

Organized by Dr. Linda Collins: 314-513-4117; sponsored by Campus Life

Wednesday, Feb. 19

Black History Trivia

Noon-1 p.m., Student Center Commons

STLCC-Meramec

Test your knowledge about African-American historical facts for a chance to win cool prizes!

Organized by Rita Reinhardt: 314-984-7593

Tuesday, Feb. 25

Drums and Music of Africa with Bobby Norfolk

11-11:45 a.m., Child Development Center

STLCC-Florissant Valley

Let Emmy Award-winning storyteller Norfolk take you on a journey to Africa through folktales and music.

Organized by Darlene Neil: 314-513-4891

Tuesday, Feb. 25

The Long Walk for Jobs & Freedom: A Reflection on the March on Washington 1:30 p.m., Multipurpose Room

STLCC-Wildwood

Genesis Steele, coordinator for Community Engagement and Partnerships at the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis, will reflect on her own experience as a participant in the Memorial March on Washington in March 2013.

Organized by Stephanie Graham, Coordinator of Campus Life & College Transition: 636-422-2244

Wednesday, Feb. 26

Winter Open Mic

Noon-3 p.m., Student Center, Multipurpose Room

STLCC-Florissant Valley

The Poetry Club’s annual Winter Open Mic event offers students, staff and the community a chance to share their original poetry (spoken word or traditional) as well as brief political or social issue speech in honor of Black History Month. Brief original song and music is also welcomed as musical interludes.

Organized by Regina Popper: 314-513-4763

Wednesday, Feb. 26

1963–1964: The Children Did March

Conceived and Adapted by The Black Repertory Theatre Noon, Meramec Theatre

STLCC-Meramec

This special performance commemorates and celebrates the 50th Anniversary of some of the most memorable events of the civil rights movement. For grades 5-8 through adults.

Organized by Rita Reinhardt: 314-984-7593

Thursday, Feb. 27

Major Black Writers: Harlem, USA

11 a.m.-1 p.m., Student Center, Multipurpose Room

STLCC-Florissant Valley

Visit spring 2014’s Major Black Writers class to see student presentations about Harlem Renaissance authors. From James Baldwin and Zora Neale Hurston to Langston Hughes and Richard Wright, the Harlem Renaissance was undeniably one of American literature’s most influential movements.

Organized by Lonetta Oliver: 314-513-4132

Congresswoman Waters celebrates MLK

Kinloch native stresses importance of education

American staff

Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA-43), a native if Kinloch, recently honored the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. during a multi-faith event in Los Angeles, hosted by the Second Baptist Church, under the leadership of Pastor William Epps and the Political Clergy Council, led by Minister Tonette Henry. The event, entitled “A Tribute to a King,” also featured California Attorney General Kamala Harris.

Congresswoman Waters noted quotes by Dr. King emphasizing the importance of education and its relevance today. She voiced her concerns about the District 1 vacant seat on the Los Angeles Unified School District Board following the death of longtime member Marguerite LaMotte and the fact that the board did not utilize an opportunity to appoint an experienced and committed educator, Dr. George McKenna, to replace her.

“We must refocus ourselves on education and support the individual chosen to represent the children in our community,” Waters said. She went on to remind the audience about how Dr. King inspired everyone to seek educational opportunities as a means to allowing the next generation to reach its full

potential, ensuring the longterm success of our nation’s economy and people. Attorney General Kamala Harris also discussed education and its importance in preventing incarceration as a part of her remarks.

“Fifty years ago, President Lyndon B. Johnson declared a War on Poverty and introduced initiatives in the hope of improving education and access to employment and economic opportunities, but there is still much work to be done,” Waters said.

“Economic inequality and the racial wealth gap remain in place as barriers to progress. Dr. King envisioned a better nation where equality would be a reality. His vision and dream are still alive today, and we must work to ensure that equality and equal access to opportunity are available for all.”

Centene Corporation presents

BLACK HISTORY

How Their Life Changed Yours

Dr. Charles R. Drew

Life

Born in 1904, Charles Drew grew up in Washington, D.C. He won an athletic scholarship and attended nearby colleges and medical schools for over a decade. During this time he received his Masters of Surgery and consistently ranked among the top of his class. By the time he graduated Drew became the first African-American with a Doctor of Medical Science degree. As news of the brutalities of World War II reached the United States a group of doctors organized the first-ever “blood bank.” A blood bank is the storage of donated blood and, in this case, used on soldiers and civilians wounded in Britain. Drew directed these efforts and coordinated blood donations of thousands of Americans.

How His Life Changed Yours

Like many “irsts” from the AfricanAmerican community, Drew paved a path for others to follow and broke through one of the many color barriers of his time. His work with the Blood for Britain project led to the creation of the American Red Cross Blood Bank, an organization that continues to provide transfusions to those in need. Drew’s work also inspired many Sickle Cell Blood Drives that are an important part in the ight against this disease.

February in black history

February 1

1865 John S. Rock becomes the first AfricanAmerican to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court.

1902 Playwright, poet, author Langston Hughes is born

1960 First major sit-in to protest segregation is held at Woolworth’s store in Greensboro, N.C.

1978 Harriet Tubman becomes the first African-American woman honored on a U.S. stamp

February 2

2

1892 Carter Williams patents the awning

1989 Lt. Cmdr. Evelyn Fields is first AfricanAmerican woman to command a ship

February 3

1870 15th Amendment is ratified, giving African Americans the right to vote

1956 Autherine Lucy is the first AfricanAmerican student at the University of Alabama

February 4

1867 Peabody Fund is established to aid African- American education

1822 Free AfricanAmericans settle in Liberia, West Africa.

1913 Rosa Parks is born

1986 The U.S. Postal Service issues a stamp honoring Abolitionist and Women’s Right Activist Sojourner Truth

February 5

1934 Baseball great Hank Aaron

is born

1955 Louis R. Lautier is the first African-American admitted to the National Press Club

February 6

1867 Robert Tanner Jackson is the first African-American to receive a degree in dentistry

1993 Arthur Ashe, tennis player, humanitarian and activist, dies

February 7

1867 Frederick Douglass meets with President Andrew Johnson

1883 Ragtime pianist and composer Eubie Blake is born

1926 Negro History Week, originated by Carter G. Woodson, observed for the first time

February 8

1951 Pvt. Edward Cleaborn, Memphis soldier, receives the Distinguished Service Cross

1968 Three students at South Carolina State are killed during a segregation protest in

Orangeburg, S.C.

February 9

1944 Alice Walker, Pulitzer Prize-winning author, is born

1964 Arthur Ashe becomes the first AfricanAmerican on a U.S. Davis Cup team

1971 Satchel Paige is the first Negro League player elected to major league baseball’s Hall of Fame

1995 Dr. Bernard Harris Jr. becomes the first African American to work in space

February 10

1780 Capt. Paul Cuffe and six other African-Americans of Massachusetts petition for the right to vote

1927 Leontyne Price, internationally acclaimed opera singer, is born

1989 Ronald H. Brown becomes the first African-American chairman of the Democratic National Committee.

1992 Alex Haley, Pulitzer Prize-winning author of the epic book Roots dies

February 11

1783 Jarena Lee, the first woman to preach in an AME church, is born

1977 Clifford Alexander, Jr. is confirmed as the first African-American Secretary of the Army

February 12

1909 NAACP is founded in New York City

Courtesy of Hot Topics Hot Serials

Pastor William Epps, California Attorney General Kamala Harris, Congresswoman Maxine Waters and Minister Tonette Henry.

John S. Rock

Luther Boykins convened the January meeting. Luther had also attended De Andreas.

In addition to being an early Schoemehl supporter, he was also a paid political operative responsible for orchestrating Schoemehl’s North Side support base.

Vince said that the meeting

As

I was with him in his office and asked her to join us. Asking Nancy to join us provoked another thousand thoughts about what Vince wanted to talk to me about that had to be done right now Normally, it took two weeks to get on his schedule. The only thing that I could think of was either a complaint or maybe some political favor one of his important supporters wanted from the assessor’s office.

Nancy was in his office in less than a minute. Nancy Rice was Vince’s political operative. Her official title was executive secretary to the mayor, the only exempted or patronage office in the mayor’s office. All of the other positions on the mayor’s staff were civil servants. Civil servants were prohibited by the City Charter from participating in any political activity while on the city payroll.

Nancy had Irish red hair and bore the nickname “Red Sonja.” She was also the niece of one of the most powerful Irish politicians in the history of St. Louis politics, Jack Dwyer. Dwyer had been committeeman of the 4th Ward and city treasurer. He also served as the chairman of the St. Louis City Democratic Central Committee.

After exchanging pleasantries, Vince motioned for us to go and sit on a couch and love seat in what could be described as a lounging area of his office. He asked me how I was doing and told me that he had heard nothing but good things about my performance as assessor. Nancy nodded her head, and Vince then asked me what my future plans were.

I reminded him of a conversation I had with him several months before about becoming the deputy assessor when Lowell Jackson, the current deputy, retired. Lowell was retiring in June and I was interested in getting his job, which was in the civil service and thus more secure.

Nancy responded immediately, telling me that she could not believe that I was not interested in getting back into elected politics. She said she thought that my future in politics was bright. I thanked her and then reiterated my desire to pursue a civil service career. I told her that my daughter was a going to be a junior in high school in September and I needed a job that was more secure to help me prepare for her college tuition costs. They both nodded their heads, acknowledging my comments, but it was clear from the looks on their faces that this was not the answer they were looking for.

Vince then started telling me about a meeting he had with 1st District Congressman William L. Clay in January of that year at Kim Tucci’s house. Tucci was one of Vince’s earliest and strongest supporters. He always bragged to black people about how he taught Vince at De Andreas, an integrated Catholic high school in North St. Louis. He, along with John Ferrara and Mike Fresta, were joint owners of the Pasta House Co.

Vince said that Tucci and

was convened to heal a rift that had developed between Schoemehl and Bill Clay in the summer of 1986, when Schoemehl filed candidates against several Clay allies.

Schoemehl had encouraged Judy Raker to run against state Senator John Bass; Chester Hines for state representative

against Clay’s son, William Lacy Clay Jr.; Louis Hamilton against Circuit Clerk Freeman Bosley Jr.; and Marvin Steele against License Collector Billie Boykins.

Jack Keane, another ally of Schoemehl, had filed as a candidate against Collector of Revenue Ronald Leggett.

Schoemehl had also convinced Al Jackson, former assistant director of the St. Louis Housing Authority and a candidate for comptroller in 1985, to file for collector of revenue with the hope that Jackson, an African American, would split the black vote.

To be continued in next week’s Black History Month section.

This article is excerpted from Virvus Jones’ forthcoming memoir, “The Swap.” This version of events reflects the author’s personal memories of events in which he was a direct participant.

Virvus Jones

BLAck HiStory montH ActivitieS

Through February 7, Rethinking Black History Through Art with Ron Young, St. Louis Public Library – Julia Davis Branch, 4415 Natural Bridge. For more information, call (314) 5390343.

Fri., Feb. 7, 7 p.m., The Black Rep presents Witnesses to Freedom. Library Headquarters, 1640 S. Lindbergh Blvd., 63131. For more information, visit www.slcl.org/black-historycelebration.

Feb. 8, 1 p.m., In honor of Black History Month, Sabayet’s sister organization, New African Paradigm has partnered with the Missouri History Museum to present a FREE screening of Hidden Colors 2 with a panel discussion following, Missouri History Museum, 5700 Lindell in Forest Park. For more information, visit www.sabayet. org.

Sun., Feb. 9, 1:30 p.m., Community Women Against Hardship presents A Jazz Brunch: In Celebration of Black History Month.

Jerome “Scrooge” Harris, drums; Freddie Washington, saxophone; Bob DeBoo, bass; Anita Jackson, vocals. With special guest Willie Pickens. The Bistro in Grand Center, 3536 Washington Ave., 63103. For more information, call (314) 289-7523 or visit www. cwah.org.

Sun., Feb. 9, 2 p.m., The St. Louis Public Library presents its Black History Month Keynote Address by Wil Haygood, author of the The Butler. Central Library, 1301 Olive St., 63103. For more information, call (314) 2066779 or visit www.slpl.org.

Mon., Feb. 10, 6:30 p.m., Black History Month

Library Headquarters, 1640 S. Lindbergh Blvd., 63131. For more information, visit www.slcl.org/black-historycelebration.

Feb. 15 – Feb 28, Gitana Productions’ Global Education through the Arts program will present “Living the Dream: 50 Years and Beyond.” The 45-minute music, drama and dance performance promoting nonviolence and acceptance are scheduled throughout the region during February, Black History Month, to celebrate the messages of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. For full schedule, locations and more information, visit www.gitana-inc.org or call Gitana Productions at (314) 721-6556.

Thurs., Feb. 20, 6:30 p.m., Westminster Christian Academy presents Night of the Arts: A Celebration of Unity: Black History Month 2014. To honor and celebrate the achievements of black Americans throughout history, Westminster will host a Black History Month event featuring Westminster music, drama, and poetry students. 800 Maryville Centre Dr., 63017. For more information, visit www.wcastl. org.

black-history-celebration.

Through Feb. 25, 6:30 p.m., Created Equal Film Series, St. Louis Public Library –Central Branch, 1301 Olive. For more information, call (314) 539-0315.

Tuesdays in February, 6:30 p.m., Black History Month Film Series, St. Louis County Library – Mid County Branch, 7821 Maryland Ave. For more information, call (314) 9943300.

Through Feb. 28, Black History Month: African American Inventors, St. Louis County Library – Rock Road Branch, 10267 St. Charles Rock Rd. For more information, call (314) 994-3300.

Through Feb. 28, African Chairs Exhibit, St. Louis County Library – Rock Road Branch, 10267 St. Charles Rock Rd. For more information, call (314) 994-3300.

Through Feb. 28, Urban Landscape Art: The Birth of the Movement in the Inner Cities featuring Yemane Hughes, St. Louis Public Library – Divoll Branch, 4234 N. Grand. For more information, call (314) 5390315.

Celebration: Potato Chip Tasting, St. Louis County Library – Prairie Commons Branch, 915 Utz Lane. For more information, visit www.slcl.org/black-historycelebration.

Tues., Feb. 11, 7 p.m., African American History and Genealogy, St. Louis County Library – Cliff Cave Branch, 5430 Telegraph Rd. For more information, visit www.slcl.org/ black-history-celebration.

Wed., Feb. 12, 4:30 p.m., Black History Celebration: African Mask Workshop, St.

Louis County Library – Prairie Commons Branch, 915 Utz Lane. For more information, visit www.slcl.org/blackhistory-celebration.

Thurs., Feb. 13, 10 a.m., Harris Stowe State University’s Annual Black History Month Health Fair, HGA Lower Level Hallway, 3026 Laclede. For more information, call (314) 3405030.

Fri., Feb. 14, 7:30 p.m., Powell Symphony Hall presents Lift Every Voice: Black History Month

FEBRUARY 14

FRIDAY AT 7:30PM

Kevin McBeth, conductor Jennifer Holliday, vocalist and narrator St. Louis Symphony IN UNISON® Chorus

Featuring Broadway veteran Jennifer Holliday,

as

Chorus

Celebration starring the InUnison Chorus and featuring Jennifer Holiday This annual concert celebrates AfricanAmerican cultures and traditions that have influenced the history of St. Louis, as well as cities around the world. 718 N. Grand Blvd., 63103. For more information, visit www. stlsymphony.org.

Sat., Feb. 15, 7 p.m., St. Louis County Library presents Black History Celebration 2014 with featured speaker, Ayana Mathis. Ms. Mathis will be discussing “The Twelve Tribes of Hattie.”

PLAY

Continued from B1

University.

“Black Anthology is an integral part of this campus’ history that has brought the triumphs and trials of Washington University’s African-American community,” Maxwell said.

“The fact that it has remained a tradition over the past 25 years is a testament to its power and effectiveness as an emotionally moving and thought-provoking production. Being a part of the process has been a true blessing.”

“Post-” is written by Josh Aiken, a senior in the College of Arts & Sciences whose next stop is a Rhodes Scholarship to the University of Oxford in England.

“I have always wanted to give voice to marginalized communities, whether they

BERNIE

Continued from B1

is alarming is that studies show that African-American history is the least significant subject for American students, black and white, and our history books grossly distort history, and usually omit the story of our forefathers and of our culture. There are so many that had an influential hand in the course of not only our history but the history of this nation. Each January and February we hear of the involvement and contributions of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Fannie Lou Hamer, Medgar Evers, Daisy Bates, Booker T. Washington, Rosa Parks, Malcolm X, Stokley Carmichael or Kwame Ture, Ida B. Wells-Barnett, Marcus Garvey, Martin Delaney, Rev. Jesse Jackson, Rev. Dr. Ralph Abernathy, Rev. James Lawton, James Meredith, Angela Davis, Floyd McKissick and Dr. Mary

Sat., Feb. 22, 1 p.m., St. Louis County Library Black History Celebration 2014 presents Gift of Gospel Celebration. Lewis & Clark Branch, 9909 Lewis-Clark Blvd., 63136. For more information, visit www.slcl.org/ black-history-celebration.

Fri., Feb. 28, 7 p.m., St. Louis County Library Black History Celebration 2014 presents Set the Night to Music with Wendy Gordon & Friends. Florissant Valley Branch, 195 S. New Florissant Rd., 63031. For more information, visit www.slcl.org/

have been communities of color or LGBT communities,” Aiken said. “I have had the experience of being able to live openly and freely and to be who I am. Knowing that so many people can’t do that motivates me.”

Black Anthology was founded in 1989 by Marcia Hayes-Harris to provide a means of commemorating the history and progress of African Americans. Since its creation, the program was totally student-run, from script to set to costume design.

However, the show has evolved from performances of compilations centered on pertinent literature to a fulllength scripted play featuring music and dance performances.

It’s the university’s oldest student cultural production.

“I have served as Black Anthology’s faculty advisor for nine years, and it has been amazing to watch students develop an appreciation for the arts, both on stage and behind the scenes,” said Wilmetta

McLeod Bethune.

There are so many other historical figures who are not famous but who used their rights to freedom of speech and civil disobedience to contribute important thoughts and teachings to let us know that we are inheritors of a precious historical legacy.

There are remarkable historical speeches and actions of many great leaders we know nothing about because the textbooks exclude or neglect them, but there are authors who have dedicated themselves to revealing the truth.

We should read of Marita Bonner, who published short stories and essays from 1924 to 1941 in Opportunity, The Crisis, Black Life and other magazines.

We should read of Daisy Bates, who in 1952 became the Arkansas branch president of the NAACP. In 1954, when the U.S. Supreme Court ruled racial segregation of schools was unconstitutional, Bates and others worked to figure out how to integrate the Little Rock public schools.

Through Feb. 28, Collaborate Black History Art Display featuring Zuka Arts Guild, St. Louis Public Library – Cabanne Branch, 1106 N. Union. For more information, call (314) 5390315.

Through Feb. 28, Afrika Identity Lost and Found Art Exhibit featuring Kiarra Lynn Smith, St. Louis Public Library – Schlafly Branch, 225 N. Euclid. For more information, call (314) 5390315.

Toliver-Diallo, assistant dean of the University’s College of Arts & Sciences and senior lecturer.

“Watching the students brainstorm ideas, from the script through the final production, is a phenomenal treat to witness. We have addressed a myriad of themes over the years. Those instrumental in founding Black Anthology on Washington University’s campus will have a special appreciation of this year’s show.” Tickets for “Post-” are $10 for students and $12 for the general public. Tickets are available at the Edison Theatre Box Office, on the Danforth Campus of Washington University, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday. The box office also is open one hour prior to showtime, and tickets may be purchased online at edison. wustl.edu/tickets/.

We should read of Charles E. Cobb Jr., who from 1962-1967 served as a field secretary for the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) in Mississippi. He is a founding member of the Association of Black Journalists and wrote the book On the Road to Freedom, a Guided Tour of the Civil Rights Trail I hope that you will research these authors and others. We should understand their ideals and appreciate the work done by them, because we need to better demonstrate to our community and to the world what it is they are missing.

Please watch the Bernie Hayes TV program Saturday night at 10 p.m. and Friday morning at 9 a.m. and Sunday evenings at 5:30 p.m. on KNLC-TV Ch. 24. Follow me on Twitter: @berhay and view my blog at http:// berniehayesunderstands. blogspot.com/. I can be reached by fax at (314) 837-3369 or e-mail at: berhay@swbell.net.

Powell Symphony Hall presents Lift Every Voice: Black History Month Celebration starring the InUnison Chorus with special guest Jennifer Holiday.

By Melanie Adams

250 points to enter STL history

History Museum celebrates city’s 250th anniversary

The Missouri History Museum is excited to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the city of St. Louis with its new exhibit 250 in 250 opening on Friday, February 14. This free exhibit looks at 50 people, 50 places, 50 images, 50 moments and 50 objects that showcase the city’s history. The exhibit gives the city an opportunity to commemorate the men, women and events that have shaped St. Louis into the Midwestern metropolitan area it is today. While I could write a spirited debate about the 250 items on the list, I want you to visit the exhibit and make up your own mind. Since I won’t provide the list, I will talk a little about the selection process. It is important to note that the 50 people, places, images, moments and objects are not to be considered the most important pieces of St. Louis history, but rather a sampling of the richness, diversity and complexity of the region over the past 250 years.

The public had an opportunity last year to make suggestions on the museum’s website. In the object category, a viewer’s choice was selected and will be identified as such in the exhibit. In addition to the public’s list, the museum staff was also encouraged to recommend people. Once the lists were compiled, it had to be narrowed down to just 50 in each category. From a staff member’s perspective, I knew I had to be strategic and lobby for just a few things. I am happy to report my three made it to the final list. If you missed the opportunity to make suggestions on the website, all is not lost. There are two areas in the exhibit that will also allow you to submit your suggestions. One of the areas is the people section. There will be a space that allows you to vote for the 51st person. The person with the most votes each month will be included in the exhibit for that month. The second area for visitor input is the places section. Local artist Andy Cross is creating a wonderful chalkboard mural of all 50 places. There will be an area on the chalkboard for suggestions (either written or drawn) for the 51st place. While we encourage everyone to visit the museum to experience the exhibit, we also created a traveling banner show that includes one selection from each of the categories along with an introduction and conclusion banner. The banner shows are available free of charge for one month to churches, schools, community centers, etc. as a way of promoting the city’s 250th anniversary. For more information please contact Katie Moon at 314-3561-7395 or kmoon@mohistory.org.

Usually I would take the time to research and write

This St. Louis Browns uniform is the people’s choice among the 50 objects selected to represent St. Louis history in the Missouri History Museum’s new exhibit 250 in 250 , which opens Friday, February 14. This free exhibit looks at 50 people, 50 places, 50 images, 50 moments and 50 objects that showcase the city’s history to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the city of St. Louis.

Friday, February 14th

250 in 250 Exhibit Free • Opens at 10am

about the different African American-related people, places, images, moments and objects. I still may do that, but for the next few months, the museum’s outstanding Teens Make History exhibitors will be writing the content once a month for this column. They have already researched some of the history in the exhibit and are excited (ok, that might be a bit strong) about the opportunity to create a column each month. The teens’ columns will focus on individuals they interviewed about their role in St. Louis civil rights history. The museum kicks off the

BARAKA

Continued from B1

Tuesday, February 18 at the Sunshine Cultural Arts Center, 630 N. 59th St. in East St. Louis.

For more information on the February 18 celebration of Amiri Baraka in East St. Louis, call 618-650-3991 or email eredmon@siue.edu.

All photos courtesy of Eugene B. Redmond

Mourners formed a line outside the funeral

The poet’s name went up on the Apollo Theatre marquee

celebration weekend with family friendly activities and an opportunity to step inside a historic image with the help of our friends at Good Eye. These activities are free and will take place throughout the holiday weekend (including President’s Day, February 17). The exhibit is the museum’s present to the community on its 250th anniversary, and I hope you will take the time to visit and join the commemoration.

For more information on the programs please check out the museum’s website at www. mohistory.org

East St. Louis poet Eugene B. Redmond remembered his friend of more than 40 years

East St. Louis poet Eugene B. Redmond visited with Loretta Dumas (widow of author Henry Dumas) and others outside Newark Symphony Hall

Poet Sonia Sanchez salutes Baraka’s casket

Savion Glover taps in honor of the poet

Many sat in defiance so we can all stand with dignity.

Whether marching arm-and-arm, standing in silence or sitting in defiance, the American Civil Rights Movement has traveled millions of miles for just one goal – equality for everyone. At AARP, we also believe everyone deserves to live life to the fullest. As we celebrate Black History Month, we are proud to continue our commitment to helping everyone realize their own Real Possibilities

As part of our celebration of Black History Month, receive up to 25% off AARP membership when you join or renew during February. Help AARP continue standing for dignity and justice for all by visiting AARP.org/BlackHistory or calling 800-516-5845.

Real Possibilities is a trademark of AARP.

The truth and beauty of Alice Walker

Documentary of ‘Color Purple’ author airs this Friday

By Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American

From within the walls of a paper shack in Georgia came one of the most celebrated authors of contemporary American literature.

And as Alice Walker celebrates the milestone of her 70th birthday and the nation commemorates Black History Month, Thirteen’s American Masters series presents “Alice Walker: Beauty in Truth” this Friday, February 7. PBS viewers will be allowed an intimate portrait of Walker’s journey from the daughter of sharecroppers to a pioneering African-American “womanist” writer of international fame.

Much like the prose she crafted over the course of her 45-year writing career, Walker proves to be a vivid and complex subject for filmmaker Pratibha Parmar.

Interviews with Steven Spielberg, Danny Glover, Quincy Jones, Gloria Steinem, and Sapphire accentuate Walker’s frank self-portrait.

The child of sharecroppers, Walker’s brilliance and curiosity enabled her to transcend obstacles and circumstances – including race in the Jim Crow South and gender during the infancy of the women’s liberation movement.

She defied the status quo, with a willingness to gamble the freedoms her intellect afforded her for the sake of civil and human rights. The documentary illustrates a path forged by way of activism and an uncompromising approach to creative production.

She speaks of her childhood exploring her Eagleton, Ga. surroundings, knowing there was something bigger in store for her. She reflects on the peaks and valleys of the journey that took her further than anyone could have imagined. “Beauty in Truth” also manages to evoke the heartaches, struggles and sacrifices – both personal and professional – that ran parallel to her success.

In 1983 she made history as the first AfricanAmerican woman to win the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction for her novel The Color Purple. “Beauty in Truth” reminds viewers of the backlash from men of color regarding how black men are portrayed in the book and Steven Spielberg’s film adaptation.

Walker speaks about the experience of being

“Alice Walker: Beauty in Truth,” directed by Pratibha Parmar, premieres on PBS 8 p.m. CST Friday, February 7.

lauded by the literary community while being ostracized by many for portraying emotional, physical and sexual abuse at the hands of black men.

She reflects on her interracial marriage, which fell victim to the Civil Rights Movement. She speaks openly of her sexual freedom and dating women – most famously, folk singer Tracy Chapman.

She spares no intimate detail about her very public estrangement from her only daughter.

Viewers will feel her pain as she speaks of being blindsided by a Daily Mail article where Rebecca Walker claims that she felt abandoned as a child due to her mother’s focus on her work. Rebecca even claimed that her mother’s “fanatical feminist” views tore their family apart.

Walker unapologetically speaks of the pain and losses that came with every gain in her life –and no subject is off limits.

“Alice Walker: Beauty in Truth” premieres nationally on Friday, February 7 at 8 p.m. CST on PBS. Check local listings for details and visit http://www.pbs.org/americanmasters.

St Louis Community College

Saturday, Feb. 1

Honoring the Past to Plan the Future

3-5 p.m., Multipurpose Room

William J. Harrison Education Center

Author, St. Louis American columnist, and civil rights activist Jamala Rogers’ presentation will focus on the civil rights movement in St. Louis and the state of Missouri.

Organized by Angela Roffle: 314-763-6019

Monday, Feb. 3—Friday, Feb. 28

Road to Freedom: Dred Scott Exhibit

Instructional Resources Building (Library), 2nd Floor

STLCC-Florissant Valley

Hours: Monday-Thursday, 7:30 a.m.-9 p.m.; Friday, 7:30 a.m.-4.30 p.m.;

Saturday, 8 a.m.-4p.m.

Through images of documents, photographs and objects from the collection of the Missouri Historical Society, the Dred Scott Exhibit tells the story of St. Louis’ enslaved blacks and their quests for freedom.

Sponsored by David L. Underwood Library

Wednesday, Feb. 5

African-American Heritage Kick-Off Celebration

11 a.m.-1 p.m., Student Center, Multipurpose Room

STLCC-Florissant Valley

Keynote Speaker: Keith Ware, Campus Coordinator, African-American Male Initiative

· Re-enactment by Barnes Bradshaw, Missouri History Museum

· African Dance Troupe

· Musical Performances

Sponsored by Campus Life: 314-513-4294

Wednesday, Feb. 5

On a High Note

Performance by the Normandy High School Choir

Noon, Student Center Commons

STLCC-Meramec

Enjoy the beautiful melodic sounds of the Normandy High School Choir!

Organized by Rita Reinhardt: 314-984-7593

Thursday, Feb. 6

Honoring the Past to Plan the Future

11 a.m.-1 p.m., Cafe West

STLCC-Forest Park

Author, St. Louis American columnist, and civil rights activist Jamala Rogers’ presentation will focus on the civil rights movement in St. Louis and the state of Missouri.

Organized by Angela Roffle: 314-763-6019

Thursday, Feb. 6

Open Mic Night: Spoken Word

6:30-9 p.m.

Student Commons

STLCC-Wildwood

Students, staff and community members are invited to join us as we celebrate Black History Month! Perform your original Spoken Word or bring in a poem by a famous African-American writer. Brief original song and music is also welcome. Emcee Randy Hannah—a musician and an STLCC alum—will rock the house! He will share some of the history and importance of Spoken Word, and also will perform.

Organized by Stephanie Graham, Coordinator of Campus Life & College Transition: 636-422-2244

Wednesday, Feb. 12

You Are Worth the Support

11 a.m.-12:15 p.m., Student Center, Room 125

STLCC-Mermec

This presentation will focus on ‘Who YOU Are,’ and learning how to appreciate the person you have become, without having reservations! Presenter Javania Webb has demonstrated excellence by providing outreach to the LGBT and urban community. She also has provided services to the Relief Foundation; I’m Gay, Now What?; Big Brothers, Big Sisters; and St. Louis Crisis Nursery. Her passion is to help others free themselves from the chains that bind while steering them to a path of wholeness.

Organized by Rita Reinhardt: 314-984-7593

Thursday, Feb. 13

We’ve Got the Blues

9:30-10:30 a.m., Student Center, Multipurpose Room

STLCC-Florissant Valley

Learn about African-American blues artists from peer speakers through organized speeches, piano performances and video—and participate in the discussion!

Organized by Amy Brown-Marshall and Dr. Paul Higdon: 314-513-4995

Friday, Feb. 14

Healthy Relationship Seminar

11 a.m.-12:15 p.m., Student Center, Room 125

STLCC-Meramec

This seminar will serve as a discussion on how we choose a mate, build partnerships and experience relationships. The goal of this seminar is to leave participants with better clarity on why they make certain relationship choices. Presenter Latricia Buckner, MA, is an inspirational speaker, author and relationship coach.

Organized by Rita Reinhardt: 314-984-7593

Wednesday, Feb. 19

Lunch and Learn: Civil Rights in America

11 a.m.-12:15 p.m., Student Center, Multipurpose Room

STLCC-Florissant Valley

Dr. Linda Collins addresses the history of civil rights in the United States.

Organized by Dr. Linda Collins: 314-513-4117; sponsored by Campus Life

Wednesday, Feb. 19

Black History Trivia

Noon-1 p.m., Student Center Commons

STLCC-Meramec

Test your knowledge about African-American historical facts for a chance to win cool prizes!

Organized by Rita Reinhardt: 314-984-7593

Tuesday, Feb. 25

Drums and Music of Africa with Bobby Norfolk

11-11:45 a.m., Child Development Center

STLCC-Florissant Valley

Let Emmy Award-winning storyteller Norfolk take you on a journey to Africa through folktales and music.

Organized by Darlene Neil: 314-513-4891

Tuesday, Feb. 25

The Long Walk for Jobs & Freedom: A Reflection on the March on Washington 1:30 p.m., Multipurpose Room

STLCC-Wildwood

Genesis Steele, coordinator for Community Engagement and Partnerships at the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis, will reflect on her own experience as a participant in the Memorial March on Washington in March 2013.

Organized by Stephanie Graham, Coordinator of Campus Life & College Transition: 636-422-2244

Wednesday, Feb. 26

Winter Open Mic

Noon-3 p.m., Student Center, Multipurpose Room

STLCC-Florissant Valley

The Poetry Club’s annual Winter Open Mic event offers students, staff and the community a chance to share their original poetry (spoken word or traditional) as well as brief political or social issue speech in honor of Black History Month. Brief original song and music is also welcomed as musical interludes.

Organized by Regina Popper: 314-513-4763

Wednesday, Feb. 26

1963–1964: The Children Did March

Conceived and Adapted by The Black Repertory Theatre Noon, Meramec Theatre

STLCC-Meramec

This special performance commemorates and celebrates the 50th Anniversary of some of the most memorable events of the civil rights movement. For grades 5-8 through adults.

Organized by Rita Reinhardt: 314-984-7593

Thursday, Feb. 27

Major Black Writers: Harlem, USA

11 a.m.-1 p.m., Student Center, Multipurpose Room

STLCC-Florissant Valley

Visit spring 2014’s Major Black Writers class to see student presentations about Harlem Renaissance authors. From James Baldwin and Zora Neale Hurston to Langston Hughes and Richard Wright, the Harlem Renaissance was undeniably one of American literature’s most influential movements.

Organized by Lonetta Oliver: 314-513-4132

‘Butler’ author to speak at library

Wil Haygood is also a veteran journalist

American staff

Wil Haygood, author of The Butler: A Witness to History, will give the keynote address for the St. Louis Public Library’s celebration of Black History Month at 2 p.m. Sunday, February 9 at Central Library, 1301

Olive St. In conjunction with Haygood’s appearance, the library will also present a special screening of the movie inspired by Haygood’s book in Central Library’s Auditorium 6:30 p.m. Thursday, February 6. Both programs are free and open to the public. Seating is on a firstcome, first-served basis. Books will be available for purchase courtesy of Amber Books. When Barack Obama won the 2008 presidential election, Washington Post reporter Wil Haygood wanted to write an article about an African American who had worked in the White House as a servant – someone who had

Wil Haygood, author of The Butler: A Witness to History

of a black president inconceivable.

He struck gold in finding Eugene Allen, a butler who had served no less than eight presidents, from Harry Truman to Ronald Reagan.

The result was The Butler: A Witness to History, a portrait of Allen’s lifelong journey from his birth in 1919 on a Southern plantation to his years of service at the White House. Haygood’s book went on to become the inspiration for the critically and popularly acclaimed motion picture, The Butler

For 17 years Haygood was a national and foreign correspondent for The Boston Globe, where he was a Pulitzer Prize finalist. In 1990, while covering the civil war in Somalia, he was taken hostage by rebels and eventually released with the aid of Pakistani troops.

On another assignment, he found himself outside the South African prison when Nelson Mandela

come of age when segregation was so widespread, so embedded in the culture, as to make the very thought See HAYGOOD, C4

Lifting the voice of love

We want the lady in you The ‘essential single black male’ responds to ‘Eternally single?’

Leonard E. Bell Jr.

For The St. Louis American

I am writing in response to the article in the Living Section of The St Louis American published on January 23 entitled ‘Eternally single?’

While we read about the single black female’s challenges quite often, we hear less about the single black male. I think the movie “Coming to America” gives a glimpse into what the essential single black male wants: someone he can love and bestow his love upon.

I do hear the voice of Nicole when she said she has not been picky, but all single black females should also ask themselves: Have they been understanding and demonstrated a willingness to belong to someone?

See SINGLE, C4

Ayana Mathis to talk ‘Twelve Tribes of Hattie’ at STL County Library

By Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American

“The opening chapter floored me, it just, ahhhhh, absolutely floored me,” Oprah Winfrey said during her video announcement of The Twelve Tribes of Hattie by Ayana Mathis as the second selection for Oprah’s Book Club 2.0 at the end of 2012. “And this is the author’s first novel. I love it when this happens.”

The “Oprah magic touch” went into full effect, and Mathis became an overnight sensation in the literary world. By year’s end, The Twelve Tribes of Hattie would be named a New York Times Notable Book, a

Keenen Ivory Wayans back in the standup spotlight

He was a staple on the New York club scene in the early ‘80s, and Saturday night St. Louis audiences had the rare opportunity to see film and television comedy icon Keenen Ivory Wayans return to his roots at the Lumiere Theater. Wayans fared well as he oiled his standup chops in preparation for a full-fledged Wayans family comedy tour starring Damon, Marlon, Shawn and himself.

at Powell Hall.

In Unison honors Valentine’s Day and Black History with Jennifer Holliday By Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American

“There’s so much that we want to do on this night, and we could easily make this a three- or four-hour concert,” said In Unison Chorus conductor Kevin McBeth. “The hardest thing is narrowing down all of the great music we can do on an evening like this.”

Next Friday (Feb. 14) In Unison, the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra and special guest Jennifer Holliday will unite to pay homage to Black History Month for In Unison’s annual “Lift Every Voice” concert. While they have to be selective for the sake of time, In Unison is doing something special for a concert that happens to fall on Valentine’s Day.

“It opened up another opportunity to do things that we wouldn’t normally do,” McBeth said. “The sub theme is ‘United in Love,’ and there’s a lot of music that points to that.”

Holliday will sing some of her signature selections, in addition to performing with In Unison during a presentation that will include everything from Negro spirituals to contemporary ballads. There was

was the

of

The

for

Book Club 2.0, will speak at a free event at St. Louis County Library Headquarters 7 p.m. Saturday, February 15.

Ayana Mathis, whose novel

Twelve Tribes

Hattie

second selection

Oprah’s

In Unison Chorus and the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra will present “Lift Every Voice” with special guest Jennifer Holliday on Friday, February 14

Photo by Lawrence Bryant

How to place a calendar listing

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

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

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

black history month

Fri., Feb. 7, 7 p.m., The Black Rep presents Witnesses to Freedom. Library Headquarters, 1640 S. Lindbergh Blvd., 63131. For more information, visit www.slcl.org/black-historycelebration.

Feb. 8, 1 p.m., In honor of Black History Month, Sabayet’s sister organization, New African Paradigm has partnered with the Missouri History Museum to present a FREE screening of Hidden Colors 2 with a panel discussion following, Missouri History Museum, 5700 Lindell in Forest Park. For more information, visit www.sabayet.org.

Sun., Feb. 9, 1:30 p.m., Community Women Against Hardship presents A Jazz Brunch: In Celebration of Black History Month. Jerome “Scrooge” Harris, drums; Freddie Washington, saxophone; Bob DeBoo, bass; Anita Jackson, vocals. With special guest Willie Pickens. The Bistro in Grand Center, 3536 Washington Ave., 63103. For more information, call (314) 289-7523 or visit www. cwah.org.

Sun., Feb. 9, 2 p.m., The St. Louis Public Library presents its Black History Month Keynote Address by Wil Haygood, author of the The Butler. Central Library, 1301 Olive St., 63103. For more information, call (314) 2066779 or visit www.slpl.org.

Fri., Feb. 14, 7:30 p.m., Powell Symphony Hall presents Lift Every Voice: Black History Month Celebration starring the InUnison Chorus and featuring Jennifer Holiday This annual concert celebrates AfricanAmerican cultures and traditions that have influenced

the history of St. Louis, as well as cities around the world. 718 N. Grand Blvd., 63103. For more information, visit www. stlsymphony.org.

Sat., Feb. 15, 7 p.m., St. Louis County Library presents Black History Celebration 2014 with featured speaker, Ayana Mathis. Ms. Mathis will be discussing “The Twelve Tribes of Hattie.” Library Headquarters, 1640 S. Lindbergh Blvd., 63131. For more information, visit www.slcl.org/black-historycelebration.

Feb. 15 – Feb 28, Gitana Productions’ Global Education through the Arts program will present “Living the Dream: 50 Years and Beyond.” The 45-minute music, drama and dance performance promoting nonviolence and acceptance are scheduled throughout the region during February, Black History Month, to celebrate the messages of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. For more full schedule, locations and more information, visit www. gitana-inc.org or call Gitana Productions at (314) 721-6556.

Feb. 17, 7:30 p.m., Ben Jealous, former NAACP president and CEO – the youngest in the history of the organization –will speak on the Civil Rights journey in the special talk entitled “We Got What We Fought For, But We Lost What We Had,” The Loretto-Hilton, Webster University.

concerts

Friday, Feb. 14, 8 p.m., St. Louis Music Festival with Maze Featuring Frankie Beverly with Anthony Hamilton and Joe, Chaifetz Arena. For more information, visit www.ticketmaster.com.

Feb. 14 & 15, Jazz at the Bistro presents Valentine’s

Day with Erin Bode. 3536 Washington Blvd., 63103. For more information, visit www. grandcenter.org.

Sat., Feb. 15, 8 p.m., Grand Center presents Chucho Valdes Quintet. The winner of five Grammy awards and three Latin Grammy awards, the pianist and composer, hailed as “the Dean of Latin jazz” and “one of the world’s great virtuosic pianists” by the New York Times, is revered throughout the international jazz community as the forefather of Afro-Cuban jazz. 634 N. Grand Blvd., 63103. For more information, visit www.grandcenter.org.

Sat., Feb. 15, 8 p.m., The Sheldon presents Terence Blanchard. 3648 Washington Blvd., 63108. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.

Feb. 19 – 22, Jazz St. Louis presents Christian McBride with pianist Christian Sands and drummer Ulysses Owens, Jr., Jazz at the Bistro. 3536 Washington Blvd., 63103. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.

Sat., Feb. 22, 8 p.m., Friends of the Sheldon present Aaron Neville. Proceeds from this special evening benefit Sheldon Educational Programs. 3648 Washington Blvd., 63108. For more information, visit www.metrotix.com.

Fri., Feb. 28, 8 p.m., The Sheldon presents Habib Koite and Raul Midon. This inspired cross-genre pairing unites Malian superstar Habib Koité with American singer/

songwriter Raul Midón. 3648 Washington Blvd., 63108. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.

Fri., Feb. 28, 8 p.m., The Chaifetz Arena presents 2 Chainz & Pusha T. One S. Compton Ave., 63103.

Thur., Mar. 20, Kwame Foundation presents Live Your Dream Concert Hosted by Jade Harrell of Magic 100.3/Hallelujah 1600. Performances by Brianna Elise & Trio. Sheldon Concert Hall, 3648 Washington Blvd., 63108. Tickets can be purchased at eventbrite.com.

local gigs

Wed., Feb. 12, 7 p.m., Blueberry Hill presents J Boog. 6504 Delmar Blvd., 63101. For more information, visit www.blueberryhill.com.

Feb. 14 & 15, Jazz at the Bistro presents Valentine’s Day with Erin Bode. Bode consistently wins over audiences with her sweet personality and sincere performances, the perfect combination to celebrate this romantic holiday. 3536 Washington Blvd., 63103. For more information, visit www. grandcenter.org.

special events

Thurs., Feb. 6, 6 p.m., 360 St. Louis Hilton at the Ballpark

The Sheldon presents Terence Blanchard. See CONCERTS for details.

hosts The 5th Annual St. Louis Dining in the Dark. This sensory awareness dinner honors St. Louis visionaries, Matt Holliday and Bob O’ Loughlin. One S. Broadway, 63102. For more information, visit www.FightBlindness.org/ DiningInTheDark.

Thurs., Feb. 6, 5:30 p.m., Lumen host Tech Jobs Under the Big Top. An event that brings together jobseekers and employers in a fun, energetic and informal setting that brings people together like no other job fair you have ever been to. 10-15 local tech companies get on stage for 3 minutes each and pitch you on why you should come work for them. 2201 Locust St., 63167. For more information, visit www. bigtop.it.

Fri., Feb. 7, 8 p.m., Alive Magazine presents Buzz List Party 2014. Buzz List celebrates St. Louis’ most influential people, organizations and ideas of the year. This is your chance to meet, greet and party with the go-getters enriching the city. Lucas Park Grille, 1234 Washington Ave., 63103. For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com for tickets.

Sat., Feb. 8, 6 p.m., University of Missouri Columbia Black Law Student’s Association hosts 28th Annual Lloyd L. Gaines Scholarship Banquet. This year’s keynote speaker will be Administrative Hearing Commissioner Mary E. Nelson. Additionally, MU BLSA will present two scholarships to exceptional law students. Stotler Lounge,

Memorial Union, 518 Hitt St., Columbia, MO. 65201. For more information, call (205) 641-9987 or visit law.missouri. edu/blsa.

Feb. 8 – 9, 11 a.m., Bridgeton Machinist Hall hosts I Do! I Do! Wedding Show. The first 500 pre-registered brides-tobe will receive a free gift bag during the event. 12365 Saint Charles Rock Rd., 63044. For more information, visit www. asyougoevents.com.

Sat., Feb. 8, 6 p.m., Bishop DuBourg High School hosts 16th Annual Annie’s Hope Trivia Night. Proceeds support programs for grieving kids and their families. Annie’s Hope—The Bereavement Center for Kids provides family support groups, schoolbased support groups, retreats, a community resource library, grief referral service, camps and an anticipatory grief program for kids ages 3 – 18. There will also be a silent auction *50/50 * attendance prizes & more. 5850 Eichelberger St., 63109. For more information, call (314) 965-5015 or visit annieshope. org.

Sun., Feb. 9, 4 p.m., The North County Community Development (NCCD) Corporation will sponsor their 2nd Annual Community Awards Banquet and Concert, “Unsung Heroes”, Those Who Make a Difference in the Community, New Northside Baptist Conference Center, 5939 Goodfellow Blvd. The honorees are Rev. Rodrick Burton, Pastor of New Northside Baptist Church; Oficer William Munson, Safety Resource Oficer at Hazelwood Central High School; Mayor Viola Murphy of the City of Cool Valley; Mrs. Ebony BeattleBenson, Cuetopia II; Mrs. Joyce Eaton, The Millennial Tutoring Academy. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 314-780-0721, 314-882-0667 or visit the agency’s website at www. northcountycdc.org.

Thur., Feb. 13, 5:30 p.m., Emerson presents The St. Louis American Foundation’s Fourth Annual Salute to Young Leaders. Networking & Awards Reception saluting excellence in performance and service by 20 outstanding AfricanAmerican professionals under age 40. Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis, 999 N. 2nd St., 63102. For more information,

call (314) 533-8000 or email kdaniels@stlamerican.com.

Thurs., Feb. 13, 7 p.m., Table 4 Two speed dating event (25 and up), the Halo Bar at The Pageant. Purchase your tickets today at table4twostl. eventbrite.com.

Fri., Feb. 14, 6:30 p.m., The Auxiliary to the Mound City Medical Forum presents The Love Boat – A Valentine’s Day Dinner and Dance with Silent Auction. All proceeds benefit the AMCMF Nursing Scholarship and programs. For more information and to book your passage, call (314) 2658556 or (636) 887-0210.

Sat., Feb. 15, 11 a.m.. Lincoln University Annual Founders Day Luncheon, Renaissance Airport Hotel. For more information, contact Barbara Thomas at 314-8381387.

Fri., Feb. 15, 9 p.m., Laclede’s Landing presents Run for the Chocolate. This exciting and fun 4 mile run/ walk returns to the streets of Downtown St. Louis to spice up Valentine’s weekend for couples and singles alike. 710 N. Second St., 63160. For more information, visit www. runforthechocolate.com.

Fri., Feb. 15, 6:30 p.m., The Coronado Ballroom hosts The Fourth Annual Blissful Wishes Ball. Guys and dolls are invited for an evening of dinner & dancing inspired by the 1920’s. So come as a flapper or come as you are, come as a gangster or a silent screen star. Enjoy a swell night of fun Great Gatsby style. 3701 Lindell Blvd., 63108. For more information, email stlouisevents@ wishuponawedding.org.

comedy

Feb. 22, 3 p.m., New African Paradigm presents A Comedy, Poetry, Entertainment Showcase at Better Family Life, the event will serve as a fundraiser for the clinic in Ghana. For more information, visit www. sabayet.org.

theatre

Through Feb. 9, The Black Rep presents For Colored Girls who have Considered Suicide when the Rainbow is Enuf. Missouri History Museum, 5700 Lindell Blvd., 63112. For more information, visit metrotix.com.

Feb., 6 – 8 at 8 p.m., and Feb., 9 at 2 p.m., Mustard Seed Theater presents Gee’s Bend. The story of the Pettway women, quilters from the isolated community of Gee’s Bend Alabama. Beginning in

1939, the play follows Alice, her daughters Sadie and Nella, and Sadie’s husband, Macon, through segregation, family strife and the Civil Rights movement. 6800 Wydown Blvd., 63105. For more information, visit www. mustardseedtheatre.com.

Feb. 7 – 8, Black Anthology presents Post-. A student written, produced, and performed cultural show that showcases the AfricanAmerican experience on college campuses. Edison Theatre, Washington University in St. Louis, 6445 Forsyth Blvd., 63130. For more information, call (314) 935-7879 or email black. anthology@gmail.com.

Fri., Feb. 7, 8 p.m., The Fox Theater presents Mamma Mia. 527 N Grand Blvd., 63103. For more information, visit metrotix.com.

Fri., Feb. 14, 8 p.m., The Black Rep presents Laughter + Lyrics with Phyllis Yvonne Stickney. Blended evening of conscious comedy and original spoken word accented with music and song. 560 Music Center, 560 Trinity Ave., 63130. For more information, call (314) 534-3810.

Feb., 14 – 16, Peabody Opera House presents Shen Yun. The words evoke a sense of wonder, magic, and the divine. Discover the glory of a fantastically rich culture, that of classical China, brought to life through brilliantly choreographed dance and mesmerizing, all-original orchestral compositions. 1400 Market St., 63103. For more information, visit www. shenyun.com.

literary

Thurs., Feb. 13, 7 p.m., Moses signs and discusses The Sittin’ Up When Mr. Bro. Wiley, Bean’s adopted grandfather and the last slave man around, dies in the summer of 1940, Bean and his very best friend Pole are some kind of hurt. Left Bank Books Downtown, 399 N Euclid Ave., 63105. For more information, visit www.leftbank.com.

Thurs., Mar. 6, 7 p.m., Left Bank Books hosts author Ishmael Beah, author of Radiance of Tomorrow Ishmael Beah, author of A Long Way Gone, discusses his first novel, Radiance of Tomorrow, an affecting, tender parable about postwar life in Sierra Leone. 650 Maryville University Dr., 63141. For more information, visit www.left-bank.com.

arts

Through Feb. 8, HarrisStowe State University will host Sythia Saint James as an Artist in Residence

Thurs., Feb. 20, 7 p.m.,

International Photography Hall of Fame and Museum presents Intellectual Property for the Visual Artist. This introduction to intellectual property issues for visual artists explains copyright, trademark, and right of publicity concepts with concrete examples. Photographers and other visual artists will learn how to be sure they own what they create and how to avoid claim from models, businesses, and other artists. 3415 Olive St., 63103. For more information, visit www.iphf.org.

Through February 28, Portfolio Gallery, in collaboration with the Edwardsville Arts Center, Edwardsville, IL presents Ebony Creations. This show will feature the work of 28 artists represented by the Portfolio Gallery and will include paintings, photos, textiles, and sculpture for sale. This exhibit will give patrons of the Arts Center an opportunity to view a collection of work from professional artists from the St. Louis area and beyond. The Edwardsville Arts Center is located at 6165 Center Grove Road, Edwardsville, IL 62025. 618-655-0337 Map directions to EAC at WWW. Portfoliogallerystl.org

lectures

Sat., Feb. 8, 10 a.m., Microsoft presents Building Math Muscle Workshop. Explore new and easy tools to help your students learn,

AARP presents 2nd Annual Classic Black Film Festival: A Tribute to Sidney Poitier. For more information, see FILM.

practice, and review math concepts. With Microsoft OneNote and third-party applications, your students can review every step you taught in class and get more out of homework time. For more information or to register, visit www.microsoft.com/education/ teacher.

Sun., Feb. 9, 2 p.m., Catholic Action Network for Social Justice presents Mass Incarceration: Slavery Revisited Part II – A Call to Action. Missouri History Museum, 5700 Lindell Blvd., 63112. For more information, visit www. catholicactionnetwork.org/ forums.

health

Fri., Feb. 7, 6 p.m., Washington Tabernacle hosts and The Missouri Foundation for Health and People’s Community Action Corp. presents a Healthcare Exchange Education and Enrollment Symposium and a screening of the film SiCKO! Washington

Tabernacle, 3200 Washington Blvd St. Louis, MO. For more information, visit www. washtabmbc.org

Fri., Feb. 15, 7:30 p.m., Lumen Private Event Space hosts Valentine’s Dance & Silent Auction. Join The Megan Foundation for their 5th Valentine’s Dance & Silent Auction to raise research funds for Usher Syndrome, the leading cause of deaf/blindness disorders. Open bar and hor d’oeuvres, music by the Rhythm Rockers, and must-bid-on auction display, you can be sure of an unforgettable night. 2201 Locust St., 63103. For more information, visit www. meganfoundation.org.

Sat., Feb. 22, 7 p.m., Scottish Rite Cathedral hosts COTA for Kara Trivia Night. Support a little girl’s journey for a new kidney. There will also be a silent auction, raffle, door prizes, 50/50, and a snack bar.

3633 Lindell Blvd., 63108. For more information, call (314)680-1410 or email Cota. karac@yahoo.com.

St. Peter’s United Church of Christ in Ferguson is partnering with the Muslim Community of St. Louis physicians to provide free basic healthcare to adults. The clinic is offered at the St. Peter’s UCC at no charge each Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on a walk-in basis Call 314-521-5694 for more information.

Monday – Thursday, 9 – 12 a.m. & 1 p.m. – 3 p.m., Free Confidential HIV Testing. Results are available in 20 minutes. No appointments necessary. Anyone testing positive will be linked with quality HIV medical care and there is assistance available for those who are uninsured. Washington University Infectious Disease Clinic, 4570 Childrens Place, 63110. For more information, call (314) 747-1237 or (314) 7471237.

Fri., Feb. 14, 8:30 p.m., K.I.S.S. Fitness Studio hosts Christian Night Out: A Valentine’s To Remember. Festivities include: Game time, old school dance off and a special musical performance by Christian artist Jonathan Jefferson. Seating is limited. 2318 N Us Highway 67, 63033. For more information, call (314) 837-8136 or visit www.kissfitnessstudio.com.

Sat., Feb. 15, 1 p.m., 100th Birthday Celebration for Ms. Sarah Jane Stafford lifelong member of The Mercy Seat Baptist Church, The Mercy Seat Baptist Church, 4424 Dr. James Brown, Sr. Dr., St. Louis, MO 63108.

Sun., Feb. 16, 3 p.m., Joys of Glory Gospel Singers presents Salute to African-American History Month. Solomon Temple M.B. Church, 4859 St. Louis Ave., 63115. For more information, call (314) 5338705.

Thursdays in February, AARP presents 2nd Annual Classic Black Film Festival: A Tribute to Sidney Poitier. Two different films starring film legend Sidney Poitier. Show your AARP card and attend free of charge. St. Louis Cinemas Galleria-6.

Fri., Feb. 14, About Last Night starring Kevin Hart, Regina Hall and Michael Ealy opens in theatres nationwide.

Tues., Feb. 25, 6:30 p.m., Central Library hosts Created Equal Film Discussion: Freedom Riders. Dr. Stefan Bradley of St. Louis University will lead a community discussion of the documentary “Freedom Riders.” 1640 S. Lindbergh Blvd., 63131. For more information, visit createdequal. neh.gov.

HAYGOOD

Continued from C1

was released after 27 years of imprisonment. In 2002, Haygood joined The Washington Post as a national writer. He was one of the first journalists into New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina struck, a story that he covered for 33 straight days.

Also at city libraries

Harlem Renaissance. Dr. Scott Holzer speaks about the political goals and artistic creations of the Harlem Renaissance of the 1920s. 3-4 p.m. February 8, Divoll Branch,

MATHIS

Continued from C1

New York Times Best-Seller an NPR Best Book of the Year and a Buzzfeed Best Book of the Year.

One year after Mathis sat down with Winfrey to talk about her book on the OWN Network’s “Super Soul Sunday” (on Super Bowl Sunday 2013), Mathis will be heading to St. Louis, thanks to a collaboration with the County Library’s Black History Month Celebration, Read St. Louis and Left Bank Books. She will sign and discuss The Twelve Tribes of Hattie next Saturday (7 p.m., February 15) at the St. Louis County Library Headquarters (1640 S. Lindbergh).

“This book touched me so deeply,” Winfrey said. “I’m telling you – the spirit of sacred truth just leaped from the pages. Oh, my goodness. By the time I got to the last chapter, I was simply silent. I

knew I was witnessing a great writer’s career begin. To be able to read this for the first time … I envy you.” The Twelve Tribes of Hattie is set during the Great Migration, as 15-fifteen-yearold Hattie Shepherd (based on Mathis’ grandmother) flees Georgia and heads north to Philadelphia in 1923. She ends up in an unfulfilled marriage, dealing with the deaths of her firstborn children – twins lost to an illness that a few pennies could have prevented. Hattie has nine more children, and through Mathis’ prose a mother’s courage is brought to life.

“I can’t remember anything that moved me in quite this way, besides the work of Toni Morrison,” Winfrey said. Mathis worked as a waitress, a tour guide and a copy editor before becoming a graduate of the famed Iowa Writers’ Workshop.

“Other people were writers, not me,” Mathis told the New York Daily News. “Writing was an aspiration, not a goal.” She came to Iowa Writers’ Workshop with a memoir as

a work in progress before an instructor told her it didn’t make the grade. Twelve Tribes of Hattie, first planned as a series of short stories, was her backup plan.

Mathis went on to teach fiction writing as visiting faculty at the Iowa Writer’s Workshop in Spring 2013 and joined the faculty at the MFA in Creative Writing program at the Writer’s Foundry (St. Joseph’s College, New York) in Spring 2014.

“This has all been so exhilarating and stunning,” Mathis told Winfrey on Super Soul Sunday. “I feel sort of permanently stunned. There’s a great deal of gratitude and a great sense of responsibility.”

Mathis will sign and discuss “The Twelve Tribes of Hattie” on Saturday, February 15, 7pm, at the St. Louis County Library Headquarters (1640 S. Lindbergh). This event is free and open to the public. Books for signing are available from Left Bank Books in advance or at the event. For more information, call 314-367-6731 or visit leftbank.com.

4234 N. Grand Blvd. Panel Discussion: From Rosewood to O’Fallon. Ethics Project founder Christi Griffin moderates a panel discussion about the rise and fall of The Black Wall Street at the turn of the 20th century to St. Louis’ black entertainment district in the O’Fallon Park neighborhood in the 1970s and ’80s. 2-4:30 p.m. February 8, Schlafly Branch, 225 N. Euclid Ave. St. Louis Seniors: Living and Surviving the Civil Rights Era. Longtime St. Louis residents have an informal discussion about their experiences during the Civil Rights Era and its impact on their lives.

5:30-6:30 p.m. February 13, Kingshighway Branch, 2260 S. Vandeventer Ave. Breakfast With Author Priscilla Dowden-White. The

author discusses Groping Toward Democracy: African American Social Welfare Reform in St. Louis, 19101949. 10-11 a.m. February 15, Buder Branch, 4401 Hampton Ave. Civil Rights Act Panel Discussion. Stefan Bradley moderates a discussion on the impact of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 with Percy Green and Jamala Rogers. 3-4:30 p.m. February 22, Julia Davis Branch, 4415 Natural Bridge Ave. All Black History Month activities at the St. Louis Public Library are free and open to the public, but seating is limited and on a first-come, firstserved basis. Please call the appropriate branch to reserve space.

UNISON

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even some hip-hop infused into the show when Jenifer Lewis returned home to headline the concert two years ago.

“There are some brand-new things and some things that we’ve done before, and I think that balance really represents our audience,” McBeth said.

“If it were all things from the history of In Unison, then I think there would be a part of our audience that we wouldn’t reach. Just like if it were all brand-new things, I think we wouldn’t be speaking to a part of our audience.”

Many years, the show sells out. There’s rarely a “Lift Every Voice” presentation that doesn’t culminate in a lingering standing ovation.

“It’s about remembering what black history is all about and remembering the things

SINGLE

Continued from C1

Yes, you have a career; yes, you have purchased your first or second home; you have traveled extensively, all without the need of a man. That is good. However, can you say that you are willing to really be truthful about what you want and what you are looking for?

Do you want Denzel Washington, John Legend, Omar Epps, Shemar Moore in your mind, while you are looking at men who may resemble Elmer Fudd, Fat Albert, Michael Phelps, Bill Cosby or James Earl Jones?

The essential single black male does not want any woman to reduce her standards. We really want someone we can work with to become more together mentally, socially, physically and spiritually. That essentially means putting each other first, without exception. That means before family, children and grandchildren. Finding the right male does not mean annihilation from what has made you

that have gotten us this far,” McBeth said.

“However, the other side of that coin is celebrating how far we have come. Just the very thought of an AfricanAmerican conductor in front of the St. Louis Symphony –I’m standing on the shoulders of some really great men and women who made that happen.”

For example: his predecessor, Robert Ray.

“Part of my responsibility is that we don’t lose the wonderful tradition that the chorus has had up to this point that we had with Robert Ray,” McBeth said. “That’s why I’m there.”

McBeth said his favorite selection from the “Lift Every Voice” concert continues to be the title song – mainly because of the arrangement done by Roland Hayes exclusively for In Unison.

“The way that it unfolds from beginning to end – it’s just a rousing piece,” McBeth

become who you are. It means growing in areas nurtured by a well-rounded male-female relationship.

Single black males –whether they make more or less money than the single black female – are not going to subject themselves to emasculation from a woman whether she has made it, is making it or in the process of making it. We want love just like you do. But most of all, we want the lady in you more than the woman. Be a woman in the work place, societal settings, etc. However, to really see a future for us, let the lady be nourished by me. Let me open the car door, the door to the restaurant, the door to the theatre, etc. and, yes, let me pay the bills.

The essential single black male is not looking to collect rent, but rather treat you like a queen. We want for you not to worry about the mortgage, because it is based upon one income and not two; for you to know that although we have two cars, we only have one car note. Yes, we have and do nice things, but we do with cash and not credit cards.

The essential single black male wants to know that we both can be leaders and

said. “It’s hard to stay in your seat after that.”

Though the concert has its roots in the music of the Civil Rights Movement and the black church that nurtured the movement, this year it’s also all about the love.

“This whole united in love will be very important, because we won’t get to do it again for a very long time,” he said.

“Having Jennifer here is just perfect – because who doesn’t know the kind of love and the kind of struggle that Effie White had in ‘Dreamgirls’.It’s amazing how naturally it all fits together.”

In Unison and the St. Louis Symphony’s presentation of “Lift Every Voice” with special guest Jennifer Holliday will take place on Friday, February 14, 7:30pm at Powell Symphony Hall, 718 N. Grand. For more information, call (314) 534- 1700 or visit www.stlsymphony.org/ inunisonchorus/programs.aspx.

followers at appropriate times and not through deception. If you, me or we want something, let us talk about it. But I am not designed to validate the worth you did not get from your father. I am here to love you, protect you, and reserve you as my wife, the mother of our children and grand-mother to our grandchildren.

Table 4 Two speed dating at Halo

Does the “the essential black male” make you want to be boo’d up more than ever, or what?

Well … for those searching for a significant other – or simply to see what the experience of speed dating is all about – the wonderful folks at Table 4 Two are looking to create some couples just in time for the holiday of love. They are hosting a speed dating event for the grown folks (25 and up) next Thursday (Feb. 13, from 7 – 11 p.m.) at The Halo Bar at The Pageant. Space is limited, and they are said to be on their way to a sold-out experience. Purchase your tickets at table4twostl. eventbrite.com.

Oprah Winfrey with author Ayana Mathis

The In Unison Chorus

Photo by Wiley Price

n “At the end of the season, you want to play your best football. And we did.”

– Russell Wilson, quarterback of the Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks

PreP BasketBall NoteBook

With Earl Austin Jr.

Public vs. Private

Prep hoops showdown at Whitfield School on

Saturday

Eight of the area’s top basketball programs will be in action on Saturday at the Third Annual Public vs. Private Showcase at Whitfield School. The fourgame event pits four public schools against four private schools. Proceeds from the event will go to the Because We Care Foundation.

In the first game, host Whitfield will take on Oakville at noon. Oakville features 6’11” Saint Louis University recruit Austin Gillmann while Whitfield will counter with 6’5” senior standout Dimitri Rucker.

Game No. 2 will feature Webster Groves vs. SLUH at 1:30 p.m. in a battle of tough, defensive minded teams. The two teams met in last year’s Public vs. Private Showcase with Webster Groves winning.

In Game 3, Ladue will take on St. Louis Christian Academy at 3 p.m. Ladue features one of the area’s top guards in 5’7” senior Cornell Johnston. St. Louis Christian Academy has travelled around the country playing a national schedule.

In the finale, Hazelwood Central will take on Duchesne in a battle of two of the area’s top teams. Hazelwood Central is a contender in Class 4 while Duchesne is a prime contender in Class 4. Both teams are big and deep in talent. Tip off is at 4:30 p.m. Hot game

One of the top games of the weekend will be held on Friday night when Madison Prep hosts Columbia Hickman at Soldan. Tip off is at 7 p.m. Madison Prep has another strong team that is hoping to repeat as Class 3 state champions. The Bears are led by 6’8” senior forward Arlando Cook. Columbia Hickman is one of the top Class 5 teams in the state. The Kewpies finished third in the state tournament a year ago. They are led by the stellar backcourt of 6’3” junior Jimmy Whitt and 6’3” senior Chris Clark.

The two teams had a memorable meeting last season in Columbia in which Hickman won on a last-second shot by Whitt.

Groves’

Winter Challenge

On the girls side, the Webster Groves Winter Challenge will be held this week. The tournament features two of the nation’s top teams in Incarnate Word Academy and

N the ClutCh With Ishmael H. Sistrunk

Bird betting on Bynum

Injury-prone head case might be just what Pacers need

One of my favorite commercials during my youth was the McDonald’s commercial featuring Larry Bird and Michael Jordan shooting all sorts of crazy trick shots with Jordan’s Big Mac on the line. Thirty-some years later, it seems the pride of French Lick is still at his gambling ways. This time, however, instead of betting on a Big Mac, he’s betting on a big man – Andrew Bynum, to be precise. Bird and the Indiana Pacers recently signed

n Andrew Bynum is certainly not the same player he was in the purple and gold.

season at a modest (by NBA standards) one million dollar price tag. That may sound like a heck of a deal for a former all-star and two-time NBA champion, but Bynum is certainly not the same player he was in the purple and gold. For those needing a refresher, the Lakers dealt Bynum to the Philadelphia 76ers in 2012 after his first (and only) All-Star appearance. The 7’0” center failed to suit up for a single game in Philly due to lingering knee

issues. He then signed with the Cleveland Cavaliers as a free agent, averaging a disappointing 8.4 points, 5.3 rebounds and 1.2 blocks per game. The prevailing notion is that a bad attitude and lessthan-stellar work ethnic got him suspended indefinitely by the Cavs and ultimately traded to the Chicago Bulls and waived before he ever set foot in the house that Jordan built. Still, decent centers are hard to find in today’s NBA, so it was no surprise when the Pacers, Miami Heat, Los Angeles Clippers, Dallas Mavericks and others showed interest in Bynum. Despite rumors of being disinterested in basketball, Bird has now given Bynum an opportunity

Columbia Rock Bridge. Barring any upsets, these two state powerhouse programs should meet in the championship game on Saturday at 3:30 p.m.

See PREP, C7

rams rouNduP

With Palmer L. Alexander III

Rams replace defensive coordinator

Fisher dumps

Tim Walton for Gregg Williams

n Gregg Williams, known for his aggressive play-calling, will fit well in the rugged NFC West.

Jeff Fisher wanted to run this defense the whole time. Tim Walton just wasn’t a right fit for the Rams. They played too soft. It looked like Walton didn’t know his personnel. The one thing I hear in his defense: The secondary is young and they needed to be protected. True. Funny, that in Janoris Jenkins’ rookie season he scored four defensive touchdowns. Trumaine Johnson as a rookie took Bradley Fletcher’s job and never relinquished it. You are going to get beat in football. That happens. They’re young – that’s been established. It just sounds like an excuse. Bringing back Williams could be nothing but great for the Rams. This defense is already brimming with confidence, and it doesn’t get better than being coached from the defensive side of the ball by someone who has been in two Super Bowls. Williams, known for his aggressive playcalling, will fit well in the rugged NFC West. And Fisher wants to trust someone to call plays. They used a collective approach with Fisher in his first two seasons. Now the job belongs to one man. Locally there was plenty of interest in this Super Bowl because the Seahawks have 19 players on their roster that are undrafted. And the St. Louis Rams are in year three of a rebuilding period. Year three was when the Seahawks took off after posting back-to-back 7-9 records in 2010 and 2011. Then they had the breakthrough season 2012 with an 11-5 record. Now they are champions.

Palmer L. Alexander

Photo by Wiley Price

Earl Austin Jr.

Andrew Bynum’s job will be to block shots, grab rebounds and deliver hard fouls –something at which Bynum has proven to be a savant. Just ask J.J. Barea.

Webster

Stephen Harris (23) shoots over a Jackson defender during their 76-67 victory over the Indians at Webster on Saturday.

Claib’s Call

With Mike Claiborne

NFL Hall of Fame shame game

The pro football Hall of Fame selection committee commits a fumble again. While those who were selected were worthy, my question is when did Michael Strahan become a better player in big games than Charles Haley? Strahan is a very good player and really is Hall of Fame-worthy, but at whose expense this soon after his retirement? While Strahan has endeared himself to America with his post-football career ventures, Haley has been on more Super Bowl championship teams than any man alive (five, if you are counting). The fact that he is not in the Hall of Fame is becoming a joke.

are driving down the wrong street on this one.

Black and gold

How ironic would it be if during Black History month an African American made history at the Winter Olympics? Shani Davis of Chicago is poised to go after his third gold medal in as many Olympiads. It has never been done before, and he is considered to be a heavy favorite in his three speed-skating events.

We all know that he had a rough relationship with media and some voters during his playing career, and now they are making him pay. Funny, I thought it was about what you did on the field and not what you said or did not say around your locker. If the committee has an ax to grind, then they should just come out with it, say so and we can move on. Haley is not alone, as Tim Brown has waited too long as well. And you thought the baseball Hall of Fame process was flawed. There seems to be room in the van for more who

I wrote about Davis a few years ago when he came onto the speed-skating scene. The politics and racism were hot, heavy and strong against Davis and his mother because of how he elected to handle his career. The U.S. Speed Skating Federation had the media and some of his teammates play along, and they went out of their way to make it quite difficult. The whispers circulated about Davis and his mother being difficult were unwarranted. Davis never wavered, and he became the first African American to win a gold medal at the Winter Olympics and then he returned four years later to do it again.

To say he had a contentious relationship with the media

Charles Haley has been on more Super Bowl championship teams (five) than any man alive. The fact that he is not in the NFL Hall of Fame is a joke.

would be an understatement, as some went out their way to paint him as a bad guy with a “stage mother.” Davis elected to deal with them accordingly, and that included not talking to some. It even went as far as his not training with the rest of the

Olympic team at one point, as he elected to go with his own training regimen. That brought on open criticism by his alleged teammates.

In the end, Davis overcame all the distractions to become the best the world has ever

seen. It will be interesting now that NBC does not have Lindsey Vonn to promote or Lolo Jones’ quest to win a medal at any Olympic game she can find to follow. Davis is the real deal and deserves the attention of viewers.

Problems to tackle

As the book is now closed on the NFL season, the question locally is: How close are the Rams to getting back to the Super Bowl?

Answer: They need to put in a lot of work.

The first thing that was glaring about the Seattle Seahawks this season was their ability to flat-out tackle. Fundamentally Seattle was head and shoulders above most teams. As for the Rams, tackling was a problem, as well as discipline. Too many times they took themselves out of a play, if not the game, with a dumb play. That only gets you a good spot in front of the TV to watch someone in the playoffs.

There is no question that the Rams are moving in the right direction, but there is more work ahead than you may think. As you compare Seattle and St. Louis, aside from Pro Bowler Robert Quinn, where to you see the Rams being better than the Seahawks at any position? Like I said, more

work is needed. At what price?

Yes, there was a mild panic by some in St. Louis when it was disclosed that Rams owner Stan Kroenke had purchased some football stadium-sized land in Los Angeles.

There has been little discussion between representatives from these parts and the Kroenke group in some time, mainly because there is little to talk about. This area is not going to get into the stadium-funding business again unless they have a viable partner, and even that would be a hard sell to the community.

We are talking about a multi-billionaire who is looking for help from a cash-starved city to build a stadium to make more money? Good luck.

While I understand this is the art of negotiating on Kroenke’s part, he has given little indication that St. Louis is his first option as home for his team. In return, local support continues to wane, no matter how much potential the

Mike Claiborne

With Maurice Scott

Sheldon Richardson, a former Gateway Tech and University of Missouri star, is the NFL’s Defensive Rookie of the Year Award. He played in all 16 games for the New York Jets and had 15 starts. He recorded 41 solo tackles and a total of 78. He had 3.5 quarterback sacks and had eight tackles for losses.

STL native is Defensive Rookie of the Year

Sheldon Richardson of Gateway Tech excels with NY Jets

By Earl Austin Jr. Of The St. Louis American

St. Louisan Sheldon Richardson has proven not only to be an outstanding young defensive lineman in the National Football League, but a bit of a prophet as well.

Late in his rookie season, the former Gateway Tech and University of Missouri star told anyone who would listen that he should be the choice for the league’s Defensive Rookie of the Year Award.

Richardson’s prophecy turned into reality last Saturday night when he received the award at the NFL Awards Show.

Richardson received 23 votes to win the award, edging out Buffalo Bills linebacker Kiko Alonso, who received 19 votes. New Orleans Saints safety Kenny Vaccaro finished third with four votes. During his acceptance speech, Richardson thanked

PREP

Continued from C5

However, there are some other quality teams in the field with St. Joseph’s, Hazelwood Central, Cor Jesu, Webster Groves and Fort Zumwalt North.

The first-round games were played on Tuesday and Wednesday. The semifinals will be on Friday at 7 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.

IWA defeated Rock Bridge in the championship game last season. If the two teams meet again, the floor will be littered with future NCAA Division I players. Rock Bridge is the two-time Class 5 state champions while Incarnate Word is the defending Class 4 state champions.

Jets coach Rex Ryan for allowing him to be himself, on and off the field. As well as being a top young defensive player, Richardson is also one of the league’s best quotes. He also thanked the Jets

n Richardson received 23 votes to win the award, edging out Buffalo Bills linebacker Kiko Alonso, who received 19 votes.

organization for drafting him in the first round. Richardson also gave a shout-out to his home town of St. Louis.

The 6’3” 294-pound Richardson was the No. 13 selection in the first round by the Jets in last spring’s NFL Draft. He stepped in and immediately became a highimpact performer in the Jets’

Revenge In last week’s big showdown game, Chaminade gained some revenge when it defeated Metro Catholic Conference rival CBC 70-59. Sophomore sensation Jayson Tatum scored a game-high 33 points to lead the Red Devils. Tatum got plenty of help as sophomore Tyler Cook scored 15 points while sophomore Mike Lewis added 10. Seniors Damon Patterson and Garrett Roberts also contributed big baskets down the stretch.

Senior forward Jordan Barnett led CBC with 24 points. The Cadets defeated Chaminade 80-73 in the first meeting back in December.

Tourney champs Parkway North won the

3-4 defense.

“He had a tremendous year,” said Jets head coach Rex Ryan. “I think he has a great future here.”

For the season, Richardson played in all 16 games and had 15 starts. He recorded 41 solo tackles and a total of 78. He had 3.5 quarterback sacks and had eight tackles for losses. He also emerged as one of the league’s top young run-stoppers.

Richardson also got a chance to play some offense for the Jets at fullback. He scored two touchdowns during the season. During his prep career at Gateway Tech, Richardson was also a tight end and kick return specialist as well as being an AllAmerican defensive lineman.

Richardson went on to the University of Missouri, where he was an All-Southeastern Conference First Team selection on defense in 2013.

championship of the Fort Zumwalt North Tournament last week. The Vikings defeated Hazelwood East 65-63 in the championship game. Senior guard Edin Bradic led the Vikings with 20 points, including five 3-pointers.

Affton on a roll

Affton High has been on quite a roll this season with a 13-2 record. The Cougars defeated Normandy 82-78 last Friday night.

Senior guard Marcus Burse had 24 points, 10 rebounds and six assists while senior guard Reid Seibert had 21 points and nine rebounds. The two seniors have been Affton’s leaders throughout the season.

CLUTCH

Continued from C5 to resuscitate his career in Indiana. The question atop basketball minds everywhere is whether Bynum will be a boom or bust for the Pacers’ championship aspirations. Upon the initial announcement, my reaction was similar to that of many basketball fans. I wondered why in the world Larry Legend would look to a lazy, injuryprone clubhouse cancer as the missing piece to bringing a crown to Indy. Upon further review, Bynum and the Pacers may be a match made in heaven.

I don’t expect Bynum to all of a sudden go back to averaging 18.7 points and 11.8 rebounds, like he did his final season in L.A. Quite frankly, his arthritic knees won’t allow it and his new Pacers team doesn’t need it.

Though the Pacers only rank 20th in points scored, that statistic is a bit misleading. Indy likes to control the pace of games with its tremendous defense. If a shootout is needed, Paul George, Lance Stephenson, David West, Luis Scola and Danny Granger can all put up points in a hurry.

The Pacers’ interest in Bynum was all about putting another long, bruising body in the paint to deter defenders when Roy Hibbert is taking a breather. Bynum is not agile, but neither is Hibbert. His job will be to block shots, grab rebounds and deliver hard fouls – something at which Bynum has proven to be a savant. Just ask J.J. Barea.

n At first I wondered why in the world Larry Legend would look to a lazy, injury-prone clubhouse cancer as the missing piece to bringing a crown to Indy.

As far as Bynum’s bad attitude, the Pacers seem to be a team on a mission and it will be difficult for him to disrupt them. If he acts out, expect him to be tucked away far on the bench since the league-leading team certainly doesn’t need him in order to be a contender. Also, most of the issues with him being a head case occurred once he was out of L.A. and playing for teams with zero chance of winning an NBA championship.

If basketball isn’t Bynum’s

first love, his motivation will likely be the spoils of victors and cash money. He knows the aforementioned dearth of centers means one successful half-season run in Indiana would likely translate into big bucks in offseason free agency. Then he can find another sucker like Philly to pay him double digits to watch from the sidelines. Under no-nonsense coach Frank Vogel’s watchful eye, Bynum’s minutes and expectations will be limited. In Cleveland, the lottery-loving Cavaliers expected Bynum to be a big part of the team’s success and floundered when he flaked out. In Indiana, their new acquisition will be asked to be effective in a backup role and compete with Ian Mahimni for the role of “guy who won’t screw it up while the reserves are on the court.”

If Bynum’s oft-achy knees cooperate, the much-maligned player could be the original Bird-man’s latest and greatest trick to lift the championship trophy away from Lebron, out of Miami, far from the coast, away from the West and into the Bankers LifeFieldhouse to cut down nothing but nets. Follow Ishmael and In the Clutch on Twitter @ IshmaelSistrunk and on Google+.

Prep Athletes of the Week

Alexis Brown

Pattonville – Girls Basketball

The 5’10” senior guard has led the Pirates on a 10-game winning streak, including three victories last week. Brown had 15 points, 10 rebounds, five steals and four assists in a 44-39 victory over McCluer North. She also had 11 points in a 61-45 victory over Holt and 25 points, eight rebounds, six assists and five steals in a 65-30 victory over Fort Zumwalt North.

For the season, Brown is averaging 20.5 points, seven rebounds, 3.4 assists and five steals game. She is also making 39 percent of her 3-pointers for the Pirates, who are currently in first place in the Suburban North Conference.

Demarkis Gary

Northwest Academy – Boys Basketball

The 6’4” junior forward enjoyed two stellar performances in his team’s victories last week. He is one of the most productive inside players in the St. Louis area. Gary had 30 points and 15 rebounds in Northwest’s 74-51 victory over Hazelwood West. He then had 32 points and 18 rebounds in a 79-59 victory over Soldan in a Public High League game.

For the season, Gary is averaging 21.7 points and 16.7 rebounds, which is tops in the St. Louis metropolitan area. He is also averaging two blocks a game.

~ Celebrations ~

Birthdays Anniversary

Anniversary

Reunions

Beaumont Class of 1964 has started planning for its 50 year class reunion. We are currently looking for participants to help with the planning. Please provide your contact information to: beaumont64alumni@gmail. com.Send your ideas as well as

Happy Birthday to Jewell Graham on February 3! She will celebrate her 65th birthday at Yacovelli’s at 70’s theme party with family and friends.

Happy 18th Birthday Devonte and Dominique Ward! You both have everything it takes to be successful. This birthday, make yourself a promise that you will achieve your goals and dreams in life, no matter what. Nothing is impossible with God. Love, Momma

the best time for meetings.

Beaumont Class of 1968 46th Reunion Family Picnic will be Saturday, June 7, 2014. Meetings to plan the picnic will be the 4th Saturday of February 22, March 22 and April 26, 2014 at 2 p.m. at STL County Library 7606 Natural Bridge. For more information email bhsco1968@att.net or call 314 869-8312.

Beaumont High School Class of 1984 is looking for participants to begin planning its 30 year class reunion. Please provide your contact information to: beaumont_1984@yahoo.com.

Soldan Class of 1965 Presents Washington, DC: Our Nation’s Capital, June 19-24, 2014. For more information contact: Corinne Parker-Stukes 636294-4373, Brenda WallaceYancey 314-830-1334, Isaiah Hair, Jr. 314-387-7592 or email: soldanclassof65@gmail. com.

Sumner Alumni Association hosts its 11th Annual RoundUp of Sumner Alumni Sunday, February 23, 2014, 1-4 p.m. at Sumner High School. This year’s honorees are alumni that have served in any area associated with the Transportation Field. Also, we will honor alumni that have volunteered at Sumner on a regular basis from 2008-

Congratulations to Skylar Joy Dixon on her 13th birthday on February 7. Love always, Your proud grandparents, O’Neal and Clenora Stafford

Happy Sweet 16th birthday to my sweetest daughter Tianuna Brandon-Blue on February 3. Enjoy and be blessed!

14. A Reception will be held in the gym from 12:45 - 1:45 p.m. with displays, souvenir items, photographer, and more. New and renewal of alumni memberships accepted in the foyer. Program starts at 2 p.m. in the auditorium. For more info, contact P. Mason at 314.556.3944, J. Vanderford at 314.454.0029 or email: sumnersince1875@yahoo.com. Vendors are welcome ($50 in advance); contact B. Louis at 314.385.9843.

Sumner 1964 Class Reunion Committee is looking for classmates we have lost contact with. Please call or email any changes to your name, address, telephone number, and/or email to

Patricia Wells Sheltonat (314) 839-2214 or patricia. shelton@att.net or Carol Strawbridge at (314) 5248504 or strawu@AOL.com.

Sumner High School Class of 1969 has started planning its 45th class reunion. Please email shsclassof69@yahoo.com for more information or call Leonard at 314-413-3104 or Meredith at 314-306-2349.

Sumner High Class of 1975 has started planning its 40th reunion. Please provide contact information to sumnerclassof75@gmail. com or C. Jackson 314-4776785 for more information.

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

Reunion notices are free of charge and based on space availability. We prefer that notices be emailed to us!

However, notices may also be sent by mail to:

Kate Daniel, 2315 Pine St., St. Louis, MO 63103

Deadline is 10 a.m. on Friday. If you’d like your class to be featured in a reunion profile, email or mail photos to us.

Our email address is: reunions@ stlamerican.com

Happy

to James and Jestine Ingram, celebrating 51 years of marriage on February 4!

First black Chaplain of Senate to speak here

Chaplain

Barry Black to speak at New Horizon and New Sunny Mount

American staff

Chaplain Barry Black, the 62nd Chaplain for the United States Senate and the first African American to serve in that role, will be guest speaking in St. Louis this weekend.

Chaplain Black will speak

10:30 a.m. Saturday, February

8 at New Horizon Christian Church, 206 Emerling Dr., where Pastor B. T. Rice will host him. He will speak again 10:30 a.m. Sunday, February 9 at New Sunny Mount Baptist Church, 4700 West Florissant, where Rev. Donald Hunter is pastor. Both services are open to the public.

Bishop Black made national news last year when the Congress shut down much of the federal government. Every day of the shutdown, he continued to open the U.S. Senate chamber with a prayer for Congress to find a solution – even though he was one of many federal workers whose pay had been cut off by the shutdown.

“I’m being remunerated from above,” Black told ABC. “And that’s pretty special.”

Throughout the crisis, Black called upon members of the Senate to examine their consciences and reflect

‘Enough is enough,’” and he asked that God “cover our shame with the robe of Your righteousness.”

His prayers merited the rare honor of a parody on Saturday Night Live, where Kenan Thompson played the chaplain delivering much more earthy prayers than Black himself offered in Senate chambers.

Chaplain Black was elected to his position on June 27, 2003, becoming the first African American and the first Seventh-day Adventist to hold this office. The Senate elected its first chaplain in 1789.

He served for more than 27 years as a chaplain in the U.S. Navy, rising to the rank of rear admiral and ending his career as the Chief of Chaplains of the U.S. Navy, the senior chaplain of the U.S. Navy Chaplain Corps. He retired from the Navy on August 15, 2003.

Black holds doctorates in ministry and psychology and master’s degrees in divinity, counseling and management. He is the author of an autobiography, From the Hood to the Hill, published in 2006.

Sometimes I have put myself in the most difficult of situations because without deliberate conscious effort, I forget God has worked this thing out, without any input from me. I used to think there must be something I’m not getting because the more I searched for the meaning of my own salvation, the more confused I would become.

You see life teaches you a thing or two or three when you’re arrogant enough to think you have all the answers. I now know, as a result of a rather enlightening Sunday service, that I am not the primary source of knowing why things unfold the way as they do.

on the damage caused by the shutdown – although Black said in his prayers he was speaking only to God.

“The fact that they overhear it is just one of the fortuitous advantages of what I do,” Black told ABC.

On Oct. 1, the first day of the shutdown, he prayed for divine guidance to “strengthen our weakness, replacing cynicism with faith and cowardice with courage.”

On Oct. 3, he prayed, “Save us from the madness. We acknowledge our transgressions, our shortcomings, our smugness,

our selfishness and our pride ... Deliver us from the hypocrisy of attempting to sound reasonable while being unreasonable.”

During his prayer, on Oct. 4, the day after officers from the U.S. Capitol Police shot and killed a woman who had used her car in an attempt to breach federal grounds, Black noted that the officers were not being paid because of the government shutdown.

On day nine, prompted by news of the delay of death benefits for military families, Black prayed, “It’s time for our lawmakers to say

“We grew up in the ‘hood,” he has said of his upbringing. “We grew up in the toxic pathology of an inner-city ghetto. There were prostitutes on the corner, there were drug pushers, there was domestic violence that you could see sitting on the steps of your home. So, it was a very challenging situation.”

Black is a native of Baltimore, Md. His mother was a domestic and his father was a long-distance truck driver. He is one of eight children. He is married to Brenda Black, née Pearsall, of St. Petersburg, Florida. They have three sons: Barry II, Brendan and Bradford.

The minister’s message was so simple that I can only believe it was God’s time to share His destiny for me via a word about independence. I realize now that I cannot do anything without Jesus. I realize I don’t function well outside the boundaries of faith, a faith predicated upon Father God, Jesus, Holy Spirit, Savior of my soul existence.

That means getting as close as I can, as often as I can to wallowing in the Word of God. He exists therefore I exist. My calling, my vocation, in this regard is to accept, listen and obey. Scripture says lean not upon your own understanding and seek Him. If I do that, He will be found. And you know what? Where He is, that’s where I’ll be.

You’ve all heard this before: God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son for me. This is a life and death and life that makes eternity real. My life is a gift, granted to me by the Almighty with purpose and destiny, whatever that might be. All I have to do is accept what is shown to me and listen.

It’s the listening part that is so difficult to me at times because, in this world, everybody and everything is trying to get my attention. I find that in order for me to really listen, I need quiet time. I need some consistent time in the Word. I am not always consistent, but it is my consistent belief that God will never abandon those who seek Him out. I believe in Deuteronomy

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

James A. Washington

Chaplain Barry Black, the first African American to serve as Chaplain for the U.S. Senate, will be guest speaking in St. Louis this weekend at New Horizon Christian Church and New Sunny Mount Baptist Church.

UMSL student receives Fulbright to Argentina St. LouiS A

American staff

The idea of teaching those who will be teaching others is just one of many things that excites Loren Moseley about her recent honor.

Moseley, a secondary education graduate student at the University of Missouri–St. Louis, received a Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship. She will spend eight months working at the Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata in Buenos Aires Province, Argentina. She will leave in March and teach English to student teachers at the university. In addition, she will work at a local underprivileged youth center in Argentina.

Loren Moseley, a secondary education graduate student at the University of Missouri–St. Louis, received a Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship to Argentina. She teaches Spanish at Gateway STEM High School in the St. Louis Public School District and is tutoring liaison at the Youth Learning Center in St. Louis. Also, McDonald’s offers

“I hope to bring to them a greater understanding about life in the U.S., teach them more about the English language, especially in terms of grammar and syntax,” said Moseley, of St. Louis. “I hope throughout this opportunity, my students and I are able to bridge a gap between our cultures, discuss similarities and differences in our educational system and address the challenges that second language learners encounter.”

Moseley, who moved to St. Louis six years ago from Columbia, Mo., teaches Spanish at Gateway STEM High School in the St. Louis Public School District and is tutoring liaison at the Youth Learning Center in St. Louis.

She said she’s traveled outside of the United States before but this will be a completely different experience and one she’s very excited about.

“I hope to better understand how it feels to be a second-language learner because that’s what I will be when I get to Argentina,” she said. “I have a minor in Spanish and I’m conversational, but I would like to be fluent. This opportunity gives me a chance to gain useful strategies that can be used in my classroom to make Spanish language acquisition for my students more authentic.”

In addition to teaching the language, Moseley hopes that she can share the culture of the United States with her students in Argentina throughout her Fulbright experience.

$70K in local scholarships

“I will be bringing artifacts such as magazines, music, postcards, clothing and other things from the U.S. to share with my students and to help them gain a better understand of American culture,” she said. “I believe it’s easier to understand a language when you understand the culture.”

Pattonville adds pharmacy tech certificate

Students at Pattonville High School can now graduate with a certificate that qualifies them to

work as a pharmacy technician.

The Pattonville Board of Education on Jan. 14 approved curriculum recommendations for the pharmacy technology course, which began the second semester of 2013-2014 school year.

Pharmacy technicians are entry-level personnel who work in many pharmacy settings (hospital, retail, urgent care centers, drug companies, law offices) within the healthcare industry. They assist the pharmacist by entering patient data into the computer system to process prescriptions. Students will be trained to pass

the certification exam in this twoclass period program at Pattonville High School. Students who earn a 75 percent or higher in the class will also have the opportunity to complete a 60-hour internship in the community. Pattonville is working with MK Education, an education consulting firm that offers allied health training, and area pharmacy chains to train Pattonville students. Classes are taught by practicing pharmacists in the community.

“I can’t tell you how excited some of these kids are about this opportunity,” said Julie Kampschroeder, Pattonville’s col-

lege and career counselor. “Some of them have faced severe obstacles in their lives. Having the chance to earn this certificate before the end of their senior year can be a real game changer in their lives.”

Pattonville High School Associate Principal Tiffany Besse said 50 students originally expressed interest in the course. The first class has been filled with 28 students and several are on a wait list. Those who earn the certificate and are licensed in Missouri typically earn an average starting salary of $15 an hour, she said. The class is for seniors only, as students must be 18 when they begin working in a health-related field, Kampschroeder said.

The addition of the new course does not require additional staffing. Any staffing or instructional materials needed to offer the course is funded through the school’s federal Innovation High School Grant, since the course supports the grant’s health occupations pathway. Pattonville High School was designated an Innovation High School last spring and received a grant to enable Pattonville students to connect to high-demand jobs through college credit, apprenticeships and internships while attending high school. The grant focuses on three professional areas of learning: information technology, advanced manufacturing and health/medical professions.

McDonald’s offers scholarships

McDonald’s Owners and Operators of St. Louis and Metro East continue to help make higher education a reality for St. Louis-area high school students. Each year, local McDonald’s Restaurants provide college scholarships through the McDonald’s Academic Excellence Award Scholarship Program. In 2014, over $70,000 will be awarded to recipients.

The McDonald’s Academic Excellence Award Scholarship Program is designated for highachieving, African-American students, and will award a one-time $3,000 college scholarship, along with several gifts and recognitions for the selected recipients.

McDonald’s has executed this program through partnerships with the UNCF, Mathews-Dickey Boys & Girls Club, Jackie Joyner-Kersee Center and Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis.

The recipients of the scholarships are required to have high academic achievements with extracurricular involvements, and successfully participate in a face-to-face interview with our Interview Committee. Each recipient is required to provide community service hours through one of our partner organizations. High school seniors may apply for the 2014 program through March 1 to be considered. More information, along with photos from the 2013 program, can be found at McDonaldsSTL.com.

Celebrity Swagger Snap of the Week

Young Leaders Eve, Almost. We’re down to the wire, so I already have a sickening suit with the bangin’ salmon blouse laid across the bed in the guest room ready for me to suit up! We are exactly one week away from THE event for the young movers and shakers and I can’t wait to see how things are going to roll in our new spot at the Four Seasons – especially after I saw the swag upgrade it had for Nelly and ‘nem for the Black and White Ball. And when Emerson and The St. Louis American Foundation team up to showcase the city’s rising stars from all sorts of arenas for the 4th Annual Salute to Young Leaders Networking Awards Reception next week, it is going be one of the most-buzzed-about events in the city. You don’t want to be left out in the cold, so come through and toast to 20 African Americans under the age of 40 who are on their way to the top – or already in the midst of making major moves for our city. Tickets are only $25, which will get you beverages, hors d’oeurves, and networking like you’ve never seen. And the tix are going VERY fast. The party starts at 5:30 p.m. and you can visit stlamerican.com, call (314) 533-8000 or email kdaniel@stlamerican.com for more information.

A new time for Tony and Tammie. For those of you who don’t know, the Tony Scott show – with the lovely Tammie Holland – is going back to mornings starting next Monday (Feb. 10) on Majic 100.3. That’s right; they’ll be helping break the monotony of your morning commute from 6-10 a.m. every weekday. I really think this switch will be a good look for them and give us some local flavor in the mornings. But I know why most of y’all are thrilled. You’re sick of sneaking in a bathroom stall or using up one of your work breaks to hide in the car so you can call in to respond to their “Therapy Letters.” I can’t tell you how many folks I could tell were either trying to disguise their voices so they wouldn’t be caught on air while on the job, or scream whispering from under a desk in their cubes saying “that’s too much playing, drop him honey…” as their two cents to the latest therapy dilemma. Shift 58+ and Aunyae Heart equals Alicia Keys homage. So the musical tributes at the Rustic Goat carried on again Friday night. This time the folks at Shift 58 presented Aunyae Heart giving tribute to who is obviously one of her musical sheros. I’m telling you, based on how she knew every note and nuance of Keys’ catalog, that Aunyae spent her tween years locked in her room with a mini Casio keyboard playing and singing along to every note of “Songs in A Minor.” Honestly, in my opinion, Aunyae actually trumps Alicia Keys on the vocal chops tip_________ (inserted pause for the haters’ “girl please” and “you must be crazy”). But I must say that Aunyae needs to re-up on her stage presence. I mean Aunyae had the look (that yellow strapless dress was everything) and the sound on Friday, but she didn’t really connect with the crowd as a whole. In all fairness to Aunyae, she could have been giving a full-on Alicia Keys imitation – and if that’s the case she nailed the borderline boredom that Mrs. Swizz Beatz gives with her stage show. Now while I love the tribute shows, I must say that it’s steering local performers from standing on their own as original artists. The last four shows I’ve seen by STL talent have them resorted to cover acts.

Trina: the fabulous trap diva. After getting my adult contemporary soul on at the Rustic Goat, I slid (literally…that black ice on the sidewalk across the street almost took your girl all the way out) over to see the MPAC Liquid Assets Eye Candy Coliseum Friday combo pack. I was still a bit dizzy after my fall, so I’m not quite sure if the Eye Candy competition ever went down. But what I do know is that the girls were giving their best Trina tributes with tragic hombre blonde quick weave, cut off tees, painted-on leggings and panties with decorative tights being passed off as outfits. When Trina finally did come to towards the stage, I thought she was another impersonator. She hurried through her ratchet girl anthems at the speed of light, do you hear me? In ten minutes she had touched on three albums. I was like “I potentially bruised my shoulder blade and kneecap for this?”

Keneen’s comedy comeback. Saturday evening I kicked my night off by checking out Keenen Ivory Wayans at The Lumiere Theatre. I was expecting the worst because y’all know how corny the Wayans can be when they’re not in somebody’s skit or spoof movie. And Keenen hasn’t been on stage since Eddie Murphy was selling out shows. But he wasn’t bad. He didn’t have me hurled over in my seat, but I can’t say that I was disappointed. I wish I could say the same about show opener Kenny Kinds…poor thing. I’ve seen more laughter exchanged during an interrogation room scene on “The First 48” than for his part of the show. I have to give him props for being brave and sticking out the whole show though. And I have to tell Kenny how lucky he is that Keenen must do yoga and is apparently on some positive energy type of tip, because had it been just about anybody else on the bill they would have used the first 20 minutes of the show to skewer him for not bringing it on stage. 8Ball & MJG’s redemption song. It was take two for the trap music at The Coliseum as dirty south founding fathers 8Ball & MJG brought the MASSES out Saturday night. They must have heard me telling the folks that my love affair with them had ended due to that lackluster show at the Loft, because they worked to redeem themselves on Sunday morning (which is when they actually took the stage). I’ve been following 8Ball & MJG around like the hippies do with the Grateful Dead, so I knew that they wouldn’t be taking the stage before 2 a.m. no matter what. The hosts, whom I’ll call “team talk over every song” and some regular opening acts had me bored. But when the legends took to the stage with “You Don’t Want Drama” I was once again a faithful disciple – even if they look like they don’t do much other than play

these days.

dominoes

Corey, Aunyae, Jeremy, Cornell and Ambra teamed up to give audiences a live taste of Alicia Keys Friday night @ The Rustic Goat

Reality star Deelishis was in the STL for the one year anniversary of Yellow Diamond Boutique with owner Diamond Saturday @ The Rustic Goat Photo by Arlis Davis.

Hot 104.1’s A-Plus with ‘Real Housewives of Atlanta’ Kandi Burress @ Hot 104.1 FM studios Saturday afternoon

The latest Eye Candy Model winner Kelsee had an opportunity to pose with special guest Trina Friday night @ The Coliseum Photo by Arlis Davis

Elson Williams of Major Brands with Mishelae of Majic 100.3 and DJ Nune @ Ultimate Super Bowl Experience Sunday @ The Forest Park Golf Club House

Chelsey and Shenita were in Super Bowl mode Sunday afternoon @ The Coliseum

Curtis is in good hands with Anjanette and his wife Sharon Saturday night @ The Kappa Pre Super Bowl Party @ The Machinist Hall

Michelle Pointer helped National Sales Network’s STL chapter president Debbie Fleming celebrate her birthday Friday night @ The Rustic Goat

Orlando of Rock House and Koolaid of Black Vizon Ent with Southern rap legends 8Ball and MJG, who performed Saturday @ the Coliseum Photo by Christopher Hawkins.

Bonnie and KD started off their Super Bowl weekend by kicking it with the Kappas Saturday night @ The Machinist Hall

Keenen Ivory Wayans made a name for himself and his family with a franchise built on sketch comedy, sitcoms and spoof films. Saturday night, fans like got the rare chance to see him in action on stage as a standup comic thanks to a two-show set at Lumiere Theatre.

Photos by Lawrence Bryant

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

Regardless of the length of time I have been in medicine, losing a patient to cancer is still extremely painful and heartbreaking. Male, female, black, white, young or old, my sorrow is the same. Cancer’s unpredictable nature can wreak havoc on not only the affected individual but the immediate and extended families, co-workers, caregivers, and even the healthcare professionals. A New Testament scripture in Matthew 5: 45 states that “it rains on the just and the unjust,”

Many years ago in medical school, I recall when I lost my very first patient to cancer. Let’s just call him A.W. A. W. was an elderly gentleman with bladder cancer who was being cared for by the VA hospital in Iowa City, Iowa. He was as cantankerous as all the other veterans, but he and I got along marvelously. I’m sure I peaked his curiosity since I was this young black girl from the south with hair like he had never seen and a dialect that included words and phrases like “yawl and fixin’ to.” I often had to redirect him to the business at hand, because he loved to talk and wanted to know

Career disparities

every detail of my life.

I saw A.W. every day and we developed such a great relationship that he made me promise that when the rotation was over that I would write to him occasionally. Of course I said I would. A few months later when I was busy with the next major medical clerkship, I remembered A. W. and my promise. I wrote him a letter describing my current hospital service and I shared with him how much I learned from my experiences with him.

About a week or so after that, I received a letter from A. W.’s son explaining that his father had died not too long after his hospitalization. His son wrote in the letter that A. W. talked about me often and that he appreciated the care I gave. As a student, those words helped shape my future career in medicine. A. W. taught me the cruel reality of cancer: it robs you of precious time with your friends and loved ones. However, scientists are learning some patterns of cancer that can help predict a person’s likelihood of developing this

life-ravishing disease. For instance, 1 in 5 cancer deaths can be attributed to cigarette use. In 1982, the United States Surgeon General, C. Everett Koop, stated that “Cigarette smoking is the major single cause of mortality in the United States” and his words remain true even today. Cigarette smoking is linked to an increased risk of cancer in lung, bladder, esophagus, ovaries, colorectal and a host of other cancers. Although the association of cigarette smoking and cancer risk is well-documented and studied, a large percentage of our society continues to smoke. Almost 50 million adults smoke. Fifty-four percent of children between the ages of 3 and 11 are exposed to second-hand smoke. Some groups, such as people with a lower educational level, smoke more. Only 6% of people with a graduate degree smoke. Cigarette manufacturers are also aware of these statistics and that is the reason for the prevalence of nicotine advertisements in poor neighborhoods.

With all of the debate surrounding the implementation of the Affordable Care Act and the decision of several states not to expand Medicaid, have we lost sight about the commonalities of our discussions: making healthcare affordable for all and reducing the cost of healthcare? I am no economist by any means but I do understand that preventing a disease is cheaper any day than treating one. So with everything we know about cigarette use and its link to cancer, why do states such as Missouri, Louisiana, Alabama, and Georgia have some of the lowest

taxes on cigarettes? The state of Missouri has the distinct honor of having the lowest tax in the nation at $.17 per pack. These are questions I encourage you to ask yourselves when electing the next wave of legislators.

Another major area of cancer disparity is in preventative screening. For instance, black and white women get mammograms at about the same rate. However, if the mammogram is abnormal, black women receive the necessary follow up at a slower pace than white women. Timely screening is important since the cancers found in black women are more aggressive and are found at more advanced stages.

Although colorectal screening has increased in the US, 22 million people are not up-to-date on screening recommendations. Per the CDC, black people had the highest rate of getting colon cancer in 2010 but significantly lagged behind whites in regards to screening. Some theorize that the low rates of colon cancer screening in the black community may be due to a lack of knowledge or a lack of access.

Though we have much further to go in our understanding of cancer, its treatment, and the lofty goal of eradication, we do have some general basic information that could potentially save lives and that is in the area of prevention. If you want to reduce the likelihood of developing cancer, don’t smoke, get the recommended screening tests, exercise regularly, and eat a healthy diet.

Yours in Service, Denise Hooks-Anderson, M.D. Assistant Professor SLUCare Family Medicine yourhealthmatters@stlamerican.com

Your Health MattersA

A bi-monthly special supplement of the St. Louis American February 6, 2014

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

Donald M. Suggs, President and Publisher

Kevin Jones, Senior Vice President, COO

Dina M. Suggs, Senior Vice President

Chris King, Editorial Director

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

Sandra Jordan, Health Reporter

Debbie Chase, Director of Health Strategy & Outreach

Onye Hollomon, Barb Sills, Pamela Simmons, Sales

Michael Terhaar, Art/Production Manager

Angelita Jackson, Cover Design

Wiley Price, Photojournalist

the

Denise Hooks Anderson, M.D.

By Sandra Jordan Of The St. Louis American

Heart fluttering, a misstep in the beat of heart muscle contractions, can happen on occasion. What happens when they are frequent enough to interfere with daily activities? That was the dilemma of St. Louis County resident Danyeill Vanzant, whose insufficient heartbeats were causing fatigue, lightheadedness and other symptoms.

Vanzant had premature ventricular contractions, a common heart irregularity that causes the heart to beat sooner than it should – causing a prolonged rest before the next beat – that is stronger than normal because it has more collected blood to force out of the lower chambers of the heart into the rest of the body.

n “A couple of months ago, I was getting up from the desk and I doubled over; it felt like someone kicked me in my chest.”

– Danyeill Vanzant

This sort of abnormality can happen in the atrial or upper chambers, or as in Vanzant’s case, the ventricles, or lower chambers of the heart.

“I always had a high heart rate, and then it had dropped,” Vanzant explained. “I used to be out of breath all the time.”

After a period of her admitted-procrastination, Vanzant decided to get her heart in order, but not before a scary trip to the emergency room.

“A couple of months ago, I was getting up from the desk and I doubled over; it felt like someone kicked me in my chest,” she said. “When I got down to the emergency room, my heart rate was up.”

In mid-November, in a scheduled outpatient procedure, her cardiologist, Dr. Sundeep Das, implanted a pacemaker in her heart to regulate its beat intervals. The pacemaker in her heart took care of what she could not regulate on her own.

The rest of her journey to better health involved the tried and true personal investment of a healthier diet and exercise as part of her daily routine.

Standing 4 feet, 9 inches, Vanzant had been living with diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma and weight issues.

“I used to be on blood pressure and

‘Back to myself’

Keeping pace with a healthy heart

diabetes medicine. I don’t take anything no more,” Vanzant said.

After a short recovery from the pacemaker surgery, Vanzant said doctors gave her the “go-ahead” to return to boot camp fitness training just a week after the pacemaker was installed – but at a

less vigorous pace.

“He told me to just take it easy, like if I do jumping, don’t raise my arm and none of that type of stuff,” she said. “He told me to do leg exercises and I couldn’t stand on the bike, just sit down.”

“Some people were telling me, ‘Girl,

by Wiley Price

naw, you can’t do that,’ but I told them ‘he’s a heart doctor, so he knows.’”

These days, Vanzant feels great. She runs about seven or eight miles a day and takes spin classes at her fitness boot

See HEART, page 4

Photo

High cholesterol fuels the growth, spread of breast cancer

A byproduct of cholesterol functions like the hormone estrogen to fuel the growth and spread of the most common types of breast cancers, researchers at the Duke Cancer Institute report.

The researchers also found that anti-cholesterol drugs such as statins appear to diminish the effect of this estrogen-like molecule.

Published in a recent issue of the journal Science, the findings are early, using mouse models and tumor cells. But the research for the first time explains the link between high cholesterol and breast cancer, especially in post-menopausal women, and suggests that dietary changes or therapies to reduce cholesterol may also offer a simple, accessible way to reduce breast cancer risk.

“A lot of studies have shown a connection between obesity and breast cancer, and specifically that elevated cholesterol is associated with breast cancer risk, but no mechanism has been identified,” said senior author Donald McDonnell, Ph.D., chair of the Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology at Duke. “What we have now found is a molecule – not cholesterol itself, but an abundant metabolite of cholesterol – called 27HC that mimics the hormone estrogen and can independently drive the growth of breast cancer.”

The hormone estrogen feeds an estimated 75 percent of all breast cancers. In a key earlier finding from McDonnell’s lab, researchers determined that 27-hydroxycholesterol – or 27HC – behaved similarly to estrogen in animals.

“The worse the tumors, the more they have of the enzyme,” said lead author Erik Nelson, Ph.D., a post-doctoral associate at Duke. Nelson said gene expression studies revealed a potential association between 27HC exposure and the development of resistance to the antiestrogen tamoxifen. Their data also highlights how increased 27HC may reduce the effectiveness of aromatase inhibitors, which are among the most commonly used breast cancer therapeutics.

“This is a very significant finding,” McDonnell said. “Human breast tumors, because they express this enzyme to make 27HC, are making an estrogen-like molecule that can promote the growth of the tumor. In essence, the tumors have developed a mechanism to use a different source of fuel.”

McDonnell said the findings suggest there may be a simple way to reduce the risk of breast cancer by keeping cholesterol in check, either with statins or a healthy diet. Additionally, for women who have breast cancer and high cholesterol, taking statins may delay or prevent resistance to endocrine therapies such as tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors.

The next steps for research include clinical studies to verify those potential outcomes, as well as studies to determine if 27HC plays a role in other cancers, McDonnell said.

HEART

Continued from page 3 camp. She dropped from a size 20 to size 6, and weighs 149 pounds, down from 204 pounds.

“I feel much better, I’m not going to even lie; I feel back to ‘myself.”

Vanzant plans to keep it that way.

“Because if I don’t exercise my body hurts, so I have to exercise,” she said. “If I don’t exercise, I’ll die.”

For more information on premature ventricular contractions and other heart conditions, visit www.heart.org.

Follow this reporter on Twitter @YrHealthMatters.

Premature heart beats

(premature ventricular contractions)

The American Heart Association said most of the time PVCs with no identifiable cause usually go away on its own. When there is a cause, your health professional will recommend a treatment plan.

However, the following conditions affect its prevalence

• Age; • Excess caffeine; • Alcohol; • Low blood oxygen; • Cold/allergy medications containing pseudoephedrine; • High blood pressure; • Heart conditions; • Simulant drug use; • Valve disorders; • Stress

Source: Medicine.net

Discrimination, trust factor in blacks’ adherence to high blood pressure medication

For African-Americans who have hypertension, controlling their high blood pressure is critical to avoid serious complications. However, a history of racial discrimination and/or mistrust in their physicians often causes them to skip taking their necessary medication, according to a recent study in the American Journal of Public Health, as reported by the Health Behavior News Service, part of the Center for Advancing Health.

“The study highlights the long-term and potentially negative effects discriminatory experiences may have on health behaviors,” said lead author Yendelela Cuffee, Ph.D., of Langone Medical Center at New York University.

Hypertension left untreated can lead to heart attack, heart failure and kidney disease. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that while 31 percent of adults in the U.S. have hypertension, the disease strikes African-Americans more often than Whites.

The CDC notes that 43 percent of African-American men and 45.7 percent of African-American women have hypertension compared to 33.9 percent of White men and 31.3 of percent White women. According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), only 28 percent of African Americans with high blood pressure have controlled hypertension compared with 33 percent of Whites.

The researchers used data from a study conducted in Birmingham, Ala. from 2007 to 2008 of 780 African-Americans with hypertension who had an average age of 53. Participants were asked whether they had ever faced racial discrimination in any of seven different settings, such as at school, getting a job or seeking medical care. They were also asked about their level of trust in their physicians, based on such factors as a physician’s care about a patient’s best interest and physician competence. The group also self-reported adherence to hypertension medication.

Fourteen percent of the participants reported low adherence to their medication regimen, 45 percent had moderate adherence and 41 percent reported high adherence. Those who reported experiencing racial discrimination had lower medication adherence, much of which was explained by lower levels of trust in their physicians. People who had greater trust in their physicians had higher adherence with their medications, as did men and older participants.

Cuffee suggested that a more trusting relationship with patients might be established by providers who are culturally sensitive to the needs and experiences of their patients and are willing to have candid discussions with patients about experiences of discrimination.

“Culturally sensitive providers are more likely to obtain a better understanding of the core issues that influence health behaviors and have greater success in administering treatments,” she added.

Malcolm Williams, Ph.D., a health disparities expert at RAND Corporation, said, “this research illustrates that the causes of such disparities are complicated and include patient experiences inside and outside the health care system.”

HealtH Briefs

SLU researchers investigate therapy to reduce sickle cell pain

Saint Louis University researchers are studying whether ReoPro(abciximab), a drug currently given to heart patients undergoing angioplasties to open blocked arteries, could also help children and young adults who have severe pain from sickle cell disease.

“Sickle cell crises, which are acute episodes that can land patients in the hospital, can be excruciatingly painful,” said William Ferguson, M.D., director of the division of pediatric hematology and oncology at Saint Louis University and a SLUCare pediatrician at SSM Cardinal Glennon Children’s Medical Center. He is chair of the study.

“The typical vaso-occlusive crisis puts patients in the hospital for three to five days on intravenous medications. All we can do is give supportive care, such as pain killers, and wait for the crisis to run its course. Our research will tell us if using a medicine like ReoPro could be a valuable strategy in treating a sickle cell crisis.”

Sickle cell crises occur when clots form in the small blood vessels, preventing blood from flowing freely to organs. Red blood cells in patients who have sickle cell disease are misshaped, crescent-like cells with sharp edges that get caught inside blood vessel walls and pile up to create blockages.

Sickle cell crises cause a second blood vessel blockage when red blood cells and platelets (small blood cells that stop bleeding) stick to the lining of the blood vessel walls.

“Right now, we don’t have anything that directly targets that secondary blockage,” Ferguson said. “These traffic pile ups can decrease blood flow and can damage the organ on the other side, such as the spleen, eyes or lungs.”

The study will examine whether or not ReoPro could reduce the length of time patients who are having a sickle cell pain crisis spend in the hospital.

Scientists from SLU’s Center for World Health and Medicine reviewed medical literature that identified the mechanism of action used by ReoPro as potentially promising in treating sickle cell crises because it attacks blockages in blood flow on two fronts. They then approached Ferguson about conducting the research, said Peter Ruminski, executive director of the center.

“ReoPro hits both of those proteins that affect the stickiness of platelets and the flow of red blood cells through the walls of the blood vessels. Our research will help us find out if medications that have similar properties can be effective against sickle cell disease,” Ruminski said.

“Sickle cell disease is a neglected disease that dramatically affects members of the St. Louis community who are African American. It is devastating for those who have it in terms of diminished quality of life and shortened lifespan.”

SLU is recruiting 100 patients who are between ages 5 and 25 for the double-blind randomized trial. Within 16 hours of being hospitalized for a sickle cell pain crisis, half will receive the investigational medicine and half a placebo. All will receive the standard of care, which includes pain medication, while they are in the hospital and released.

Researchers will track how long the volunteers remain in the hospital. Those in the study will be discharged from the hospital once their pain can be controlled by oral medications, provided they have no other medical problems. They will have a follow up visit with their hematologist a week to 10 days after leaving the hospital, which is routine care for those who have suffered a sickle cell crisis. For more information, call (314) 577-5638.

The clinical trial will evaluate the safety and effectiveness of an investigational stem cell therapy designed to generate new blood vessels in the lower leg extremities in patients with critical limb ischemia due to PAD.

Mercy St. Louis tests stem cell therapy to grow new blood vessels

A clinical trial for patients with critical limb ischemia due to peripheral arterial disease is now enrolling at Mercy Hospital St. Louis.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 8 million people in the United States have peripheral arterial disease (PAD). In advanced stages of PAD, blood flow to one or both legs can become severely limited causing a serious condition known as critical limb ischemia, which in severe cases can lead to amputation.

“Patients with critical limb ischemia can have pain in their feet and legs even when resting; small cuts that don’t heal can result in sores or ulcers,” said Dr. Richard Pennell, Mercy Clinic vascular surgeon and principal investigator for the trial. “The therapy being tested will potentially improve circulation to heal those ulcers and prevent limb amputation, significantly improving the quality of life for these patients.”

The clinical trial will evaluate the safety and effectiveness of an investigational stem cell therapy designed to generate new blood vessels in the lower leg extremities in patients with critical limb ischemia due to PAD. Using Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate System (BMAC) from Harvest Technologies, Corp., stem cells from the patient’s own bone marrow are harvested, concentrated and then injected under local anesthesia into the same patient’s affected leg and foot. The main goal of the investigational treatment is to prevent or delay amputation.

The treatment is performed as an outpatient procedure in an operating room using local anesthesia and sedation. This trial is randomized, meaning that not all patients in the trial get the active treatment – one in three patients enrolled will have a placebo injection made from their own peripheral blood.

Overall, the trial will enroll 210 subjects at up to 50 investigational sites across the U.S. Subjects over the age of 18 with a confirmed diagnosis of critical limb ischemia will be randomized to one of two treatment groups at a ratio of two treated with BMAC to one control.

Only those patients meeting the predefined approved inclusion/exclusion criteria are eligible for this clinical trial. To learn more about the clinical trial and see the qualifications for participation, call toll-free at 877-547-8839 or visit www.clinicaltrialspotlight.com/ harvest.

Sat. Feb. 8, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m., 2014 Christian Hospital Heart Fair, Detrick Building Atrium, 11133 Dunn Rd. at I-270 & Hwy 367. Wellness, disease prevention and health screenings for cholesterol, glucose and blood pressure; health, diet, cooking and exercise tips from healthcare professionals and learn steps to take to prevent, halt and even reverse heart disease from keynote speaker, Joe Piscatella. To register, call 314-7479355, 877-747-9355.

Fri. Feb. 7, 6 p.m. – 9p.m., Healthcare Exchange Education & Enrollment Symposium, Washington Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church, 3200 Washington Blvd. St. Louis. Free event includes presentations by Missouri Foundation for Health, People’s Community Action Corp. and viewing of the film, “Sicko!” by filmmaker Michael Moore. For more information, visit 314533-8763.

Sat. Feb. 8, 2014, 8:30 a.m. – 12 Noon, Christian Hospital’s Annual Heart Fair, Detrick Building Atrium, 11133 Dunn Road, St. Louis, 63136. Free screenings for cholesterol, glucose, blood

Calendar

pressure; stress & heart disease information, refreshments; lecture 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. For more information, call 314-747WELL (314-747-9355).

Sun., Feb. 9, 1 p.m. – 3 p.m., Train Like the Rams in the Barnes-Jewish Hospital Wellness Zone, Rams Park, 1 Rams Way, Earth City, Mo. Run football drills, test your agility, learn how to stay healthy off the field, meet health experts. Open to persons age 18 and older. Fee is $10. Registration is required at http:// www.barnesjewish.org/formbuilder/ forms.aspx?formid=2553&sid=1.

Fri. Feb. 14, 6:30 p.m., “The Love Boat,” Mound City Medical Forum’s Annual Valentine’s Day Dinner, Dance and Silent Auction, Frontenac Hilton Music by Jazz Edge and all proceeds go to AMCMF Nursing Scholarship and programs. For more information, call 314-265-8556 or 636-887-0210.

Thursdays, Feb. 20 – March 27, 1:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m., Living a Healthy Life OASIS Series, NW HealthCare Community Room, 1225 Graham Rd. Florissant, Mo. 63031. This no-cost

self-management course is for those with chronic conditions such as heart disease, arthritis, diabetes, asthma, bronchitis, emphysema or other conditions. Class developed by Stanford University’s Patient Education Research Center. Registration is required by calling 314747-9355.

Sat. Feb. 22, Noon. – 9th Annual Polar Plunge benefitting Special Olympics Missouri in Creve Coeur Lake, Maryland Heights , Mo. Open to anyone age 10 and older; optional early check-in is February 21 from 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. at the St. Louis Outlet Mall near Cabela’s. Event day check-in begins at noon and the Plunge starts at 2:00 p.m. No wet suits; shoes are required. Each participant is required to raise a minimum $75 to participate. For more information, call 314-961-7755, email hicks@somo.org or online at www.somo.org/plunge.

Fri. Feb. 28, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m., 7th

Annual African-American Nurses’ History Conference, “Health Disparities that are Bridging the Gap,” by the College of Nursing at University of Missouri – St. Louis, J.C. Penney Auditorium. Health screenings available for weight/height/BMI, blood pressure, cholesterol, HIV/AIDS, mental health, glucose, mammograms and prostate. Registration is $40. For more information, call 314-516-5655 or visit pcs.umsl. edu/aanhc.

Sat. Mar. 1, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., free child ID - Missouri Child Identification and Protection Program (MOCHIP) at SSM St. Clare Health Center, Garden Level of the Conference Center, 1015 Bowles Ave., Fenton, Mo. 63026. Each participant with receive: a mini DVD containing the personal data of the child and emergency contacts, three digital photos, digital fingerprints, a dental impression on a bite wafer, providing a DNA sample and scent for canine searches, and instructions for child identification and protection. For more information, call 314-660-3026 or visit www. mochip.org.

Wed., Mar. 12, Food Allergies 101, Mo Baptist Medical Center, a free community panel discussion. For more information, visit aafastl.org.

Sat. March 22, 6p.m. – 10 p.m., Lupus Foundation The Purple Ball, Renaissance St. Louis Grand Hotel Majestic Ballroom, 800 Washington Ave. For more information, visit lfaheartland.org.

Sat & Sun. April 5 & 6, Go! St. Louis Marathon & Family Fitness Weekend, Half marathon, marathon, marathon

relay, 5K run/walk, Mature Mile, Go! St. Louis Read, Right & Run marathon and Children’s Fun Run. For more information, visit gostlouis.org.

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

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

Sat., May 10, 4 p.m. Metro East March for Babies, GCS Ballpark in Sauget, Ill.,2301 Grizzlie Bear Blvd. Registration at 4p.m. and event begins at 5:30 p.m. For more information, call 314-513-9990 or email MO633@marchofdimes.com.

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

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

Tuesdays, 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. – Alcohol and Drug Informational meeting, Christian Hospital, Professional Office Building 2, Suite 401. For information, call 314-839-3171.

Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. –STEPS Schizophrenia Support Group This nationally recognized program provides education and support for those with schizophrenia. Group is facilitated by an experienced STEPS nurse. For more information, call 314-839-3171.

First Thursdays, 10 a.m. – Family Support Group by NAMI St. Louis, The Alliance on Mental Illness at Transfiguration Lutheran Church, 1807 Biddle Street. No registration needed; no cost. For more information, call 314962-4670.

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

Just because it’s on the Internet doesn’t mean it’s true

By Sandra Jordan Of The St. Louis American

Tiny kernels of truth can be stretched a long way. Particularly when it’s spread on the internet. And when it involves health, claims can go from flimsy to absurd to dangerous.

One recent case in point, “Heart Attacks and Drinking Water,” a posting that popped into my Facebook newsfeed from a well-meaning FB friend.

Without reprinting its claims verbatim, it talked about the proper times during the day to drink water to prevent heart attacks and to maximize its effectiveness in the body.

Now it’s true that it’s important to drink plenty of water in daily total fluid intake, after all, good old H2O (not the rock band) makes up about two-thirds of our body weight.

Experts suggest let thirst be your guide – for healthy adults, 3.7 liters of total liquid intake for men and 2.7 liters of total liquid intake for women, according to the Institute of Medicine of the National Academies.

Apparently, this internet lore about drinking water to prevent heart attacks started off as an email circulation about heart attacks and aspirin, which has now been creatively attached to information on water, Virend K. Somers, MD told The American. Dr. Somers is the Mayo Clinic cardiologist whose name and the organization he represents have been attached to this erroneous posting.

For starters, the posting did not come from Somers or even Mayo.

“For clarification, we had nothing to do with the e-mail. The Mayo Clinic web site has a note about this particular e-mail, pointing out that neither Mayo Clinic nor I had any role in formulating it.”

That would be a “ditto” on the health studies as well.

“I have not published any studies on aspirin nor on water,” Dr. Somers added. “The entire part on aspirin was put together by someone who took the liberty of mischievously attaching our name and our work on sleep apnea to the advice.”

Not only are some of the statements wrong. Some of this advice could hurt more than it could help.

“Some of the advice is potentially dangerous and irresponsible, such as the part about not lying down,” Somers said. “Aspirin may also have significant

side effects. Should anyone have any questions regarding aspirin and personal health issues, it would be best to discuss these with his or her physician.”

If you’ve been advised by your doctor to take a daily low-dose aspirin, health experts currently point out that the best time to take that it for heart health is at bedtime. The U.S. Food & Drug

Administration stresses consistency in the time of day, but four hours before taking a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication, like ibuprofen or naproxen, to reduce the risk of bleeding in the stomach or intestines.

Bottom line: Friends don’t let friends get their health care advice from non-medical personnel on social media.

Leave that to the health professionals. Have you read some “health advice” online that seems too good to be true? Send it to us at YourHealthMatters@ stlamerican.com and we’ll find out the real deal.

Follow this reporter on Twitter @ YrHealthMatters.

What are congenital heart defects?

Congenital heart defects are abnormalities in the heart’s structure that are present at birth and affect the way blood flows through the heart. Congenital heart defects are the most common type of birth defect. The March of Dimes reports nearly 1 in 100 babies born in the U.S. each year have some type of heart defect –40,000 babies annually

The good news is with medical treatment advances, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports infants with congenital heart defects are living longer and healthier lives. Many now are living into adulthood. The most severe cases can be life-threatening, requiring immediate treatment and monitoring.

Often, it is unknown what causes these birth defects. The National

Institutes of Health’s National Heart Lung and Blood Institute said heredity may play a role in some heart defects. Additionally, children who have genetic disorders, such as Down syndrome, often have congenital heart defects – half of all babies with Down syndrome also have a congenital heart defect.

Smoking during pregnancy is been linked to several congenital heart defects.

Email your health-related question to yourhealthmatters@ stlamerican.com. A health professional will provide an answer that will be printed in a future issue of Your Health Matters.

HealtHy Profile

Christine Moore: Having a ‘heart for people’

Position/Where:

Community Living Instructor at one of the residential sites for Easter Seals Midwest in St. Louis

Career Highlights:

At Easter Seals Midwest (Formerly Life Skills) since 2004, which serves and supports persons living with developmental and physical disabilities, autism and other special needs

Works well with the elderly School bus driver

Worked in her mother’s St. Louis restaurant

Education:

Earned GED

Attended Vashon High School

Personal:

Four adult children

Attends Oasis of Love Fellowship Church

St. Louis Connection:

Born and raised in St. Louis

Your journey to success: I like helping people, and my mother had a restaurant for 28 years, and I worked so well with the community. And when my children were in school, back then, most of the kids they went to school

Christine Moore

with – the grandparents were raising the kids. And due to the fact they were getting sick and a lot of them didn’t like to go to the doctor, my kids would tell me to go over and check on their grandparents. I started doing that a lot, and my oldest son said, ‘Momma, you are really good at this. Why don’t you get a job doing it, because you really like taking care of people?” And I just started. I got hired every time I went somewhere.

At Easter Seals, I work with another community living instructor to provide care for three female clients at an Easter Seal residence. They have them all over. We order and administer medication. We help clients do house work like laundry and cleaning. We make sure the clients eat well-balanced meals. We make doctors’ appointments and take clients to their appointments. We take care of their

every need, as far as shopping for them, personal hygiene, clothes shopping, furniture shopping… whatever they are in need of … and we ask for funds through the state.

We are supposed to be teaching them – some do catch on and some of them don’t. Some of them don’t comprehend what to do, so we have to do it for them.

We have classes that we take –CPR, first aid, nutrition; it’s a lot of classes we have to take every year.

I’m there every day. We have to maintain the house; we have to check the yard, rack the leaves, clean the garage up, clean the basement. Whatever the house needs – just like you run your house.

You can’t go into it for the money; it’s not about the money. It’s not even about the job. It’s to help the person who can’t help themselves. You are there for them. You are their eyes – you are their advocate. It goes beyond your job title – I’ll go out there and clean up the garage and dump out the trash. There are just things that I know that they can’t do that still has to be done. They give us a title, but we go beyond that.

Congenital heart defects are abnormalities in the heart’s structure that are present at birth and affect the way blood flows through the heart.

TEN organizing Feb. 26 rally

Proceeds to fund prostate cancer wellness programs

The St. Louis Prostate cancer advocacy organization, The Empowerment Network, is sponsoring a “Get on the Bus” rally February 26 at the Missouri Capitol to push for funding for prostate cancer wellness programs through the Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS).

Advocates will travel from St. Louis and gather in the capitol building’s rotunda in Jefferson City to encourage state lawmakers to fund two prostate cancer pilot programs, one in the St. Louis area and the other in Pemiscot, Dunklin or New Madrid counties in the Missouri Bootheel.

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), except for skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer in American men. It is the second most common cause of death from cancer among white, African American, American Indian/Alaska Native, and Hispanic men.

Under the program, screenings, treatment, referral services, outreach, and education activities will be provided to uninsured and underinsured men of at least 50 years of age, and to high-risk men between the ages of 35 and 50.

For more information about the “Get on the Bus” campaign, to reserve a seat or for more information, call The Empowerment Network Cancer Center at 314.385.0998 or visit www. TheEmpowermentNetwork.net.

Behavioral

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

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

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

Bike helmet safety

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

HealtH ResouRces

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

Dental

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

Diabetes

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

Health Partnerships

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

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

Information

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

Medical

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

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

Nutrition

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

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

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

Prostate Cancer

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

Prescription Cost Help

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

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