St. LouiS AmericAn
By St. Louis American Staff
national awards at the virtual 2021 Messenger Awards, including the first place John Russwurm Pinnacle Award, which is the top honor of the competition, and is awarded to the newspaper with the highest cumulative score. This marks the 14th time The St. Louis American has won the Russwurm award since 1995.
The American had six other first place awards which include: Video Campaign (Sylvester Brown, Ashley Jones, Dawn Suggs; #BlackLivesMatter resurgence in Missouri); Business Story (Rebecca Rivas’ piece on minority exclusion at the makeshift morgue in St. Louis County); Don
on the uneven
during the
Trials at the The Dome at America’s Center in St. Louis on June 25.
By Sophie Hurwitz The St.
women and girls,” she told The American.
By Alvin A.
Reid
The St. Louis American
Wesley Bell, St. Louis County prosecuting attorney, said Monday that Derek Chauvin’s trial and sentencing should not end the national questy for criminal justice reform.
n “The jury got it right and everyone, regardless of profession or status, should be held accountable for their actions.”
– Wesley Bell
“The fact that a guilty verdict for a murder that literally took place before our very eyes was even in question is yet another indication of a criminal justice system in disrepair and long overdue for reform,” he said. St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner said, “Our world will never be the same after viewing the senseless murder of Mr. George Floyd at the hands of former police officer Derek Chauvin.”
“(It) sparked a movement of police accountability across the nation. The sentencing of Derek Chauvin was within the discretion of the Judge guided by Minnesota law on the applicable range of punishment.” Chauvin, the former police officer who killed George Floyd on a Minneapolis street last year, was sentenced to 22 and a half years in prison June 25.
“The jury got it right and everyone, regardless of profession or status, should be held accountable for their actions,” Bell said.
Adrian Bracy’s career has taken her from professional sports teams to one of the region’s most successful not-for-profit organizations. She is retiring after 11 years as YWCA of Metro St. Louis CEO and was honored during a June 22 reception.
Gymnast Simone Biles practices
bars
first day of the Women’s U.S. Olympic Gymnastic
Photo by Bill Greenblatt / St. Louis American
Isaac Bruce
Kings Sports Award (Alvin Reid’s piece on Cardinals’ pitcher Jack Flaherty
finding his voice in fight against racism, police brutality); Faith & Religion (Sylvester Brown’s piece on Ella Owens, COVID-19 and how God got her attention); Facebook Campaign (Wiley Price, Dana Rieck, Rebecca Rivas, Dawn Suggs; The American’s digital team’s coverage of Cori
From left are her husband, Vito, Bracy, and Edward Jones executives Penny Pennington and Emily Pitts.
Photo by Wiley Price/St. Louis American
Auto-tune spiraled T-Pain into four-year depression
T-Pain was once in a dark space of his life stemming from auto-tune.
He shared in a new clip from the Netflix series, This Is Pop that Usher triggered him to fall into a four-year cycle of depression after telling him he “f ed up music.”
“Usher was my friend,” he said in the clip. “I really respect Usher. And he said, ‘I’m gonna tell you something, man. You kinda f ed up music.’”
When T-Pain asked why, Usher told him he destroyed it due to his use of auto-tune.
“That is the very moment, and I don’t even think I realized this for a long time, but that’s the very moment that started a four-year depression for me,” he said.
This Is Pop is an eight-part series chronicling never-told stories from some of the biggest names in music.
The series will feature interviews with Boyz II Men, Chuck D, Babyface and more.
Tracee Ellis Ross executive produces Black hair docuseries with Michaela Angela Davis
The Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN) and Hulu are collaborating on “The Hair Tales,” a docuseries centered on Black women, beauty and what makes Black hair unique.
Tracee Ellis Ross is executive producer with Michaela Angela Davis, who’s responsible for the series idea.
Ellis Ross and Davis will narrate and lead viewers on a journey that connects the personal stories of extraordinary Black women to widen the lens on societal and historic themes.
“This series is about identity, culture, legacy, beauty, strength and joy,” Ellis Ross said.
“Our goal is to share this vibrant community, where we hold a sacred space for each
Production begins this year for a 2022 premiere. It will air on OWN and streamed
Documentary about Mary J. Blige’s life debuts on Amazon Prime
In a documentary about her life Mary J. Blige: My Life, Mary J. is very candid about her
In an interview with Entertainment Tonight’s Kevin Blige was transparent
about some gut-wrenching events she endured while growing up and how they influenced her 1994 album of the same name.
“To go back and actually show them where the pain came from, it was heavy, but it was nothing because those are my fans,” she said.
The most difficult aspect of the project was that Blige had to reflect on her childhood.
“That was painful because the most painful part is, ‘Why so much stuff,’ so much stuff had to happen to a little girl?” Blige said.
Mary J. Blige: My Life is now streaming on Amazon Prime.
The BeyHive comes to Beyoncé’s defense after Trick Daddy says she can’t sing
Trick Daddy has the internet buzzing after his recent critique about Beyoncé and JAY-Z’s musical talent.
A clip surfaced and went viral with him saying Beyoncé couldn’t sing and that JAY-Z has never received the greatest rapper alive honor.
The conversation came about on Clubhouse via Hollywood Unlocked. Trick Daddy accused Beyoncé of being money hungry and unwilling to provide music contributions.
“Beyoncé don’t write music and barely can sing her motherf---ing self,” he said. “Beyoncé can’t sing.”
He immediately set the web ablaze and it was met with criticism from many loyal Beyoncé fans.
“When Trick Daddy says Beyoncé can’t sing…THIS Beyoncé?” one fan wrote alongside a video of Beyoncé singing acapella.
Black TikTok dancers on strike from creating dance routines to Megan Thee Stallion’s “Thot S***”
Following the release of Megan Thee Stallion most recent single “Thot S***,” countless Black creators on TikTok have refused to choreograph dance routines to the song. They say their routines are being stolen. Erick Louis, named @theericklouis on Tik Tok shared a video on his account stating that he choreographed a dance to “Thot S***” and then began rocking back and forth to the song. He instead put the text “Sike” on the screen and said “This app would be nothing without [Black] people.”
Other creators @wazzamray and @erykahh posted videos to TikTok of them mocking dances created by white users replaced by new original choreography.
Megan’s biggest songs “Savage” and “Captain Hook” have been popularized through TikTok dances, and have gone viral from white TikTok influencers.
TikTok sensation Addison Rae was invited on “The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon” in March to perform numerous TikTok dances, majority were created by Black users and weren’t credited to them.
After facing criticism, Fallon invited those dancers on the show via Zoom to talk more about their dances.
Sources: EW.com, Deadline.com, ETOnline. com, People.com, Insider.com
ESOP: County must fire former city cop involved in Lamar Johnson case
By Dana Rieck
The St. Louis American
The Ethical Society of Police
(ESOP) is demanding that St. Louis County Police Chief Mary Barton terminate civilian employee Joseph Nickerson for his role in the Lamar Johnson case. Nickerson works in the county police recruitment department doing background investigations, but he was the principal St. Louis city homicide detective in Johnson’s case in 1994. In his current role, activists say he’s been given the power to impact the employment of others based on his testament to their suitability to be police officers — something they don’t believe he is fit to do given his prior behavior.
Johnson, 47, has been incarcerated since 1995, serving a life sentence without parole for first degree murder for killing Marcus Boyd in 1994 in St. Louis. Since then, two witness recantations led St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner to file a motion for a new trial for Johnson in 2019, who has now spent 26 years in jail. In March, the Missouri
Supreme Court ruled that state law does not give prosecutors authority to seek a new trial so many years after the case was adjudicated.
Johnson, who is Black, remains in prison. In 2019, Nickerson adamantly denied in a The St. Louis Post-Dispatch interview that he falsified evidence or documents and maintained his belief that Lamar is guilty.
On Tuesday, several leaders asserted there is concrete evidence of his alleged wrongdoing in the case (mainly evidence fabrication) and called for Barton to terminate him and for St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney Wesley Bell to investigate the alleged wrongdoing.
“If Sgt. Nickerson were a Black officer who was guilty of doing the very same thing that we know he did, there is no doubt in our minds that he would be terminated and probably charged right now,” Rev. Darryl Gray said. Gray was joined Tuesday by members of the Missouri Faith Leadership Council, the Missionary Baptist State Convention of Missouri and
asking that those who are empowered — from our county executive, our governor, our state’s attorney, the police chief — would do their jobs so that this community can know that we do have a fair and equitable policing system,” Bowie said, noting later that he believed Barton “passed the ball off” in their conversations.
Both Barton and Bell declined interview requests, instead issuing written statements through their respective media representatives.
“These are serious allegations, and we will review them carefully,” Bell wrote. “We encourage anyone who is aware of illegal conduct by this detective to contact our independent Conviction and Incident Review Unit.”
“The assignment of department employees, whether fulltime or intermittent, is a personnel matter,” Barton wrote.
cal amnesia that they all of a sudden have no memory of the facts, we’re calling out now from the community to reign in on getting Joseph Nickerson — who is an intermittent part-time employee who can be removed today if the powers at be would put the action in,” said Philip Duvall, chairman of the Social Justice Commission of the Progressive Missionary State Baptist Convention.
Duvall said the group’s next action is to file a more formal complaint with a review agency and contact the FBI’s civil rights department to see if there are any constitutional considerations in why Nickerson should remain employed.
William E. Dailey Jr., ESOP’s general counsel, said in addition to terminating Nickerson, they want to see Parson pardon Johnson — particularly because Johnson’s innocence is not in question.
the Social Justice Commission of the Progressive Missionary State Baptist Convention.
“It was then-Detective Nickerson who fabricated a case against [Johnson] and was responsible for his incarceration,” said Rev. Linden Bowie. “It blows our minds that such a person can still be employed by St. Louis County police. I just wanted to be here to inform that community that this is no knee-jerk reaction, we have been seeking some actions sur-
rounding this for quite a while.”
Bowie, who is president of the Missouri Faith Leadership Council and the Missionary Baptist State Convention of Missouri, said the group of activists have talked to Gov. Mike Parson, Barton, Bell and St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner, among other leaders. They’re worried there might be other people wrongly incarcerated in cases Nickerson investigated.
“And so, we are simply
“Employees will continue to serve in their roles until/unless they are transferred to meet the needs of the department or facts emerge that would inhibit their ability to serve in such a capacity. If faced with the latter, the department would appropriately address the matter without delay.”
Bowie said their goal is to first resolve these issues behind closed doors, which they did through multiple meetings with state and local leaders, but felt it was time to bring the issue to the public.
“It appears to be a politi-
“We want consistency in terms of how we address these situations and so now the question becomes — and everyone can watch and ask the same question, as well — about those who are in power to correct it so that the system can heal itself— are they doing what we all think ought to be done? And if not, then the final piece of the system, the most powerful piece of the system, is the people.” Gardner and Page did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Photo by Joel Currier / St. Louis Post-Dispatch
Ethical Society Of Police Attorney William Dailey calling for the termination of a St. Louis County Police employee who led the homicide investigation into Lamar Johnson in St. Louis in the 1990s.
Editorial
What to the slave is the Fourth of July?
On July 5, 1852, orator and publisher Frederick Douglass addressed the Rochester, New York Ladies Anti-Slavery Society. Delivered 13 years before the Civil War’s end, his speech is as relevant in 2021 as it was the summer day Douglass spoke. The following is a condensed version.
Fellow citizens, pardon me and allow me to ask, why am I called to speak here today? What have I, or those I represent to do with your national independence? Are the great principles of political freedom and of natural justice embodied in that Declaration of Independence extended to us? And am I therefore called upon to bring our humble offering to the national alter and to confess the benefits and express devout gratitude for the blessings resulting from your independence to us? Then would my task be light and my burden easy and delightful? For who is there so cold that a nation sympathy cannot warm him, who so adore it and dead to the claims of gratitude that would not thankfully acknowledge such priceless benefits? Who so stolid and selfish that would not give his voice to swell the hallelujahs of a nation’s Jubilee when the chains of servitude have been torn from his limbs?
Your high independence only reveals the immeasurable distance between us. The blessings in which you this day rejoice are not enjoyed in common. The rich inheritance of justice, liberty, prosperity and independence bequeathed by your fathers is shared by you, not by me. The sunlight that brought life and healing to you has brought stripes and death to me. This 4th of July is yours, not mine. You may rejoice. I must mourn. To drag a man in fetters into the grand illuminated temple of Liberty and call upon him to join you in joyous anthems were inhuman mockery in sacrilegious irony.
My subject then, fellow citizens, is American slavery. I shall see this day and its popular characteristics from the slave’s point of view. Standing here identified with the American bondsmen, making his wrongs mine. I do not hesitate to declare with all my soul that the character and conduct of this nation never looked blacker to me than on this 4th of July. Whether we turn to the declarations of the past or to the professions of the present, the conduct of the nation seems equally hideous and revolting.
America is false to the past, false to the present and solemnly binds herself to be false to the future. Standing with God and the crushed and bleeding slave on this occasion, I will in the name of humanity, which is outraged in the name of Liberty, which is fettered in the name of the constitution and the Bible, which are disregarded and trampled upon dare to call and question and to denounce with all the emphasis I can command everything that serves to perpetuate slavery, the great sin and shame of America. I will not equivocate. What is this but the acknowledgement that the slave is a moral, intellectual and responsible being? The manhood of the slave is conceded. It is admitted in the fact that Southern statute books are covered with enactments for -
bidding under severe fines and penalties, the teaching of the slave to read and write. When you can point to any such laws in reference to the beasts of the field, then I may consent to argue the manhood of the slave. When the dogs in your street, when the fowls of the air, when the cattle on your hills, when the fish of the sea and the reptiles that crawl shall be unable to distinguish the slave from a brute, then I will argue with you that the slave is a man. For the present, it is enough to affirm the equal manhood of the Negro race. Is it not astonishing that while we are plowing, planting and reaping, using all kinds of mechanical tools, erecting houses, constructing bridges, building ships, working in metal of brass, iron, copper, silver, and gold, that while we are reading, writing, and ciphering acting as clerks, merchants, and secretaries, having among us lawyers, doctors, ministers, poets, authors, editors, orators, and teachers that we are engaged in all the enterprises, common to other men, digging gold in California, capturing the whale in the Pacific feeding sheep and cattle on the hillside, living, moving, acting, thinking, planting, living in families as husbands, wives, and children, and above all confessing and worshiping the Christian God and looking hopefully for life and immortality beyond the grave.
We are called upon to prove that we are men. Would you have me argue that man is entitled to Liberty, that he is the rightful owner of his body? You have already declared it. Must I argue the wrongfulness of slavery? Is that a question for Republicans? Is it to be settled by the rules of logic and argumentation? Is a matter, the set with great difficulty involving a doubtful application of the principle of justice, hard to understand? How should I look today in the presence of Americans dividing and subdividing, a discourse to show that men have a natural right to freedom speaking of it, relatively and positively, negatively and affirmatively? To do so would be to make myself ridiculous and to offer an insult to your understanding. There is not a man beneath the canopy of heaven, who does not know that slavery is wrong for him.
The hypocrisy of the nation must be exposed and its crimes against God and man must be denounced. What to the American slave is your 4th of July? I answer: a day that reveals to him more than all other days of the year, the gross injustice and cruelty to which he is the constant victim.
To him, your celebration is a sham, your boasted Liberty, an unholy license, your national greatness, swelling vanity. Your sounds of rejoicing are empty and heartless, your shouts of Liberty and equality, hallow mocked, your prayers and hymns your sermons and Thanksgivings with all your religious parade in solemnity are to him, mere bombast, fraud, deception, a thin veil to cover up crimes, which would disgrace a nation of savages. There is not a nation of the earth, guilty of practices, more shocking and bloody than are the people of these United States at this very hour.
Letters to the editor
Juneteenth needs to be more than a national holiday
Juneteenth is a marvelous celebration of America. It is the story of Exodus reborn in America. America is and always has been the new Jerusalem--a city on a hill, with hope, redemption, and glory. Juneteenth does not erase the ravages of slavery, inequality, systemic racism, or the scourge of America’s greatest stain. Juneteenth is an American story. The Jews wandered 40 years in the desert to realize their freedom after slavery. The African-American community waited and suffered for 400 years. Passover is celebrated for 8 days and 8 nights. During this celebration we recount our dismal period of slavery and oppression by telling the story to our young. During the Passover seder we are asked to convey the story in the first person. Our African-American brothers and sisters can do that readily because their oppression is not remote. It is more than a thousand years old but it is living and evident in the fabric of our soci-
ety. We have come so far and so long, yet there is so much work to be done. The Jewish community has always stood arm and arm, hand-in-hand, shoulder-to-shoulder with the Black community. We do so now, even though we face harsh critics within the Black community, and we will always do so. The central tenet of Judaism is to love your neighbor as yourself. My people will never deny this. So for Juneteenth we shouldn’t ask ourselves why this is a national holiday. We should ask why is this is not a weeklong celebration of dignity and coming together. I ask that the AfricanAmerican community and the Jewish community of this city come together and celebrate our shared identity, story, history and the future we can forge ahead because of our shared commitment to one another, to faith, to community, and justice.
S.
Commentary
America’s foundation was built on voter suppression
The Barbershop: Hey, Soc. Since you’re here, we wanna run something else by you before you get up.
Socrates: No problem
The Barbershop: What’s the story behind all this voter suppression stuff? I thought we got pass all that back in the 60’s when my father was this young brotha’s age.
Socrates: Well to begin with, this issue is a classic example of one of my first laws of politics.
When you hear an elected official in America, at any level, publicly explain why they are against something, whatever they are saying ain’t the reason.
The Barbershop: You mean they’re lying?
Socrates: Not necessarily. What they’re saying could be true, but what they’re saying is not the real reason why they’re opposing the issue being considered.
The Barbershop: I get it, they might not be lying but they’re definitely not telling the truth.
Socrates: You got it! Now when you talk about white Republicans and voting rights for Black people, they’re just flat ass lying.
The Barbershop: Well, if they’re lying about election integrity, what’s the real deal?
Socrates: First, let me give you some context; some history really. America was not meant to be a universal democracy. The white men who founded America were mostly rich merchants, plantation owners and land speculators. Most were in America’s economic elite.
When they wrote, “We the People,” in the preamble to the Constitution, they didn’t forget to put you in the Constitution, they left you out on purpose. They also intentionally left out the Indigenous People, women and poor white men.
The Barbershop: So, you’re saying that white folks didn’t let white folks vote?
Socrates: That’s exactly what I’m saying. You could argue that the country was founded on voter suppression from the jump!
The Barbershop: How’s that?
Socrates: Everybody assumes something that’s not true, that citizenship gives you an inherent right to vote. Think about this a minute. In 1789, at the founding of the country, all
white men were citizens, but all white men could not vote.
The right to vote was granted to qualified citizens once they have reached voting age. What constitutes voting age, and what a qualified citizen is, depends on the government’s decision. There is nothing in the Constitution that defines that.
The 15th Amendment “gave” Black men the right to vote, but here is what it actually says, “The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of race, color, or previous condition of servitude.”
See it really doesn’t say you have a right to vote, but that the federal and state governments cannot deny the right to vote based on race.
The same is true of the 19th Amendment that “gave” women the right to vote. Here is what it actually says, “The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex. Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation.”
It didn’t happen until 1920132 years after the Constitution was ratified.
Let me tell you about a
n Average and low-income white people actually believe they’re part of a white American aristocracy.
Supreme Court case you’ve probably never heard of called Minor v Happersett (1877).
It happened right here in St. Louis County. Mrs. Minor tried to register to vote based on being a US citizen and she was denied. She took her case all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court. The Court held that, while women are no less citizens than men, citizenship does not confer a right to vote, and therefore State laws barring women from voting are constitutional. It was a unanimous decision.
Here’s a quote from the decision, “...the Constitution the United States does not confer the right of suffrage upon anyone.”
Another example happened in Pennsylvania. Black men who were free and owned property did not have the right to vote in the late 1830s. A state legislator explained that “The people of this state are for continuing this commonwealth,
what it has always been, a political community of white persons.”
The Barbershop: Damn, so we got nothing coming! We keep asking. ‘where’s our seat at the table?’ and white folks keep telling us ‘You ain’t got one’ or do everything they can to stop us from getting one?
I’m starting to understand why!
The Barbershop: So how did poor white men get included in the rich white man’s mix? And when they did get the right to vote, why didn’t they change things to benefit themselves, since there are more poor white men than rich white men?
Socrates: There’s a political adage that says, “it’s better to have people in the tent whizzing out, than outside the tent whizzing in. So, the political problem was, ‘how do rich white folks politically manage average and poor white folks?’
To understand how they got poor white men to drink the Kool-Aid and sell out their own economic interests, I need to introduce you to Sen. John C. Calhoun of South Carolina, who also served as vice president from 1825-1832.
Calhoun is as influential in American political thought as Thomas Jefferson, James Madison or Alexander Hamilton. He was an avowed racist and among the most ardent advocates for slavery. He was also a brilliant political thinker and theorist and provided the intellectual framework for the South’s positions on slavery and succession. In August of 1849, he gave a speech in the U.S. Senate on race and class that provided the psychological and political rationale that explains everything about how white people in America understand what it means to be white in America.
“With us, the two great divisions of society are not the rich and the poor, but white and black, and all the former, the poor as well as the rich, belong to the upper class, and are respected and treated as equals, if honest and industrious, and hence have a position and pride of character of which neither poverty nor misfortune can deprive them.”
Average and low-income white people actually believe they’re part of a white American aristocracy. W.E.B Du Bois argues that whiteness serves as a “public and psychological wage,” delivering to poor whites a valuable social status derived from their classification as “not-Black.”
Socrates: With this background, we can now deal with your original question; What’s behind this current wave of Black voter suppression. I’ll be back. Don’t worry.
Columnist Mike Jones
Frederick Douglass
City treasurer urges residents to claim new Child Tax Credit
City of St. Louis Treasurer Adam Layne is urging area residents to claim a new Child Tax Credit that can “put thousands of dollars in the hands of St. Louis families.”
The tax credit can generate up to $3,000 per child for children 6-17 years old and $3,600 per child for children under the age of 6-years-old to families making less than $150,000 or single parent families making less than $112,500 a year.
If you ever needed a reason to do your taxes, starting July 15, families who have filed will begin receiving advance payments of $300 per month per child ages 6-17 and $250 for children under age 6 for the remainder of 2021.
“We want every eligible family in St. Louis to benefit… as this is the time to ensure every family has the help they need to take advantage of this historic expansion,” Layne said in a release.
“It’s one thing to know that help is here, it’s another thing to know how to access the help available. That’s why I’m thankful [the city of St. Louis, United Way of Greater St. Louis and St. Louis Public Schools] are working together to get all families the relief they need to recover.”
To qualify for the credit, a 2019 or 2020 U.S. tax return must be filed. The partners will assist families that have yet to file their taxes. Families who did not make enough to be
required to file taxes in 2019 or 2020 should use the IRS Child Tax Credit tool at https://www.whitehouse.gov/childtax-credit.
“Helping people build a stronger financial footing is critical to our community’s success, and access to the Child Tax Credit will help local families boost income, allowing them to save for emergencies, pay down debt and catch up on bills,” said Michelle Tucker, CEO and president of United Way of Greater St. Louis
Pending eligibility, even those with no earned income or who do not owe any federal income taxes can still receive the credit if a 2019 or 2020 tax return was filed.
Metropolitan Community Tax Coalition assistance events are scheduled for 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Friday, July 9, at the Omega Center, 3900 Goodfellow Blvd. and from 9:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., Saturday, July 10, at the Bellefontaine Neighbors Recreation Center, 9669 Bellefontaine Blvd.
An IRS event is scheduled for 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday, July 10, at the Robert A. Young Federal Building, 2222 Spruce Street.
Appointments can be made at https://mctcfreetax.org/ Services are being provided by IRS Tax Assistance Centers, MCTC, volunteers and IRS employees.
Individuals can also call 2-1-1 for more information and to learn how to access free tax preparation services.
Steering into Black America’s reality
By Karsonya Wise Whitehead
You will never know real fear until you have that moment, the one when you give your Black son the keys to his first car, and he says, “Tell me again what to do when the cops stop me so that they don’t shoot me.”
Somewhere, deep within me, I realized that he said “when” and not “if.” When means it is going to happen; when means that it is inevitable; when means that he understands that he is a Black man in a white world; when means that he listened as I prayed for the mother of Philando Castile, of Miriam Casey, of Andrew Brown Jr., of Daunte Wright; when means that he understands that as a Black person, he is 20% more likely to be stopped, searched, cited and arrested than white drivers; when means that he gets it; and it means that America, the land of the free and the home of the brave, has failed him.
When he was in high school, after watching white friends get their license and then get a car, my son believed that having a car was a ticket to freedom.
“You can go where you want,” he would laugh and say, “when you want and for as long as you want. I get a car, and I’m going to be free.” How do you tell your son that the pursuit of freedom has been the singular goal of Black people ever since we were kidnapped and dragged into this experiment that one day would be called democracy?
We walked out of the Door of No Return, or off Goree Island, or away from Kunta Kinteh Island and we planned and prayed for freedom. We stood on the auction blocks, being poked and prodded, barely understanding the foreign tongue that was negotiating our price and we planned and prayed for freedom.
We fought back as they tried to break us by raping, torturing and terrorizing us and we planned and prayed for freedom. We helped some to run, others to stay alive while we planned and prayed for freedom. We stood up and demanded our freedom from lynching and Jim Crow, from disenfranchisement and domestic terror, from redlining and economic injustice, from the mass industrial prison complex and discrimination, from police brutality and racial hatred, from white supremacy and whiteness.
We have been willing to die for our freedom even as we planned and prayed. So, how do I explain to my son that in America, freedom for Black people, as A. Philip Randolph once said, “is never given; it is won.” And, as Medgar Evers said, “freedom has never been free.”
My son now lives in Tennessee, down in the heart of the South, and when we handed him his keys on the eve of Juneteenth, less than two weeks from the Fourth of July, my heart stopped for just a moment. It was the “when” and not the “if” that got me. It was the realization that no matter how far we have come, we have so much farther to go. It was a moment within the spaces, between being free and having freedom, that made me catch my breath. If you are not Black in this country, then you will never know the very real fear that washes over you, like cold water on a sun-drenched day, like listening to your grandparents talk about freedom while sharing stories of white fear and Black death, until you give your Black son the keys to his first car and he says, “Tell me again what to do when the cops stop me so that they don’t shoot me.”
Karsonya Wise Whitehead is founding director of The Karson Institute for Race, Peace, & Social Justice at Loyola University Maryland and a 2021 Edward R. Murrow Regional Award-winning radio host of “Today with Dr. Kaye.”
Local activist Zaki Baruti leads a chant in support of St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner on the Mel Carnahan Courthouse steps Thursday, June 24. Members of several civil rights, faith-based and community organizations that comprise the Community Justice Coalition attended.
Supporting Gardner
Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American
Karsonya Wise Whitehead
Continued from A1
She took the skills learned during 20 years of work in financial management for professional sports teams and transferred them to her leadership role with the YWCA. She was dedicated to its mission of “eliminating racism and empowering women.”
Among the guests at her June 22 retirement gathering were St. Louis Mayor Tishaura O. Jones, who had proclaimed the date as “Adrian Bracy Day.”
“I’m blown away. Just, way beyond,” Bracy said. Brady recently managed the YWCA’s book launch of “HERstory St. Louis: Words of Wisdom to my Younger Self.” Included are letters of advice from accomplished St. Louis women.
She told the Ladue News, “Some are funny, some are sad, but all are inspirational.”
“We hope readers enjoy each page as much as we have. We’re proud to highlight the contributions of women, including women of color, in our community.”
Bracy is working on her own book on leadership
for
on her experience in professional
and
“Adrian has led YWCA for 11 years and is retiring at
Goodbye to a fallen hero
the end of June,” said YWCA Chief Development Officer Leslie Holloway.
“She is a member of the Academy of Leaders and has a letter included in the book. The book is a concrete way for us to express our gratitude for her leadership.”
Jones called Bracy “who I want to be when I grow up.”
Leading the YWCA through COVID-19, Bracy said, was a journey full of “valleys and mountains.”
The organization had to move most of its operations to remote status and Bracy feared for her employees’ safety. She remains proud that “we never closed our doors fully.”
safe housing.”
Ruth Saphian, YWCA St. Louis chair, called Bracy instrumental in the YWCA’s success.
“Adrian’s tenure at YWCA has included some of the most challenging times for nonprofits, including economic downturn and the COVID-19 pandemic, which made YWCA’s services more needed than ever and more difficult to provide than ever,” she said.
n …(S)ome clients are traumatized from sexual assault and domestic violence. So, you just can’t close your doors [during the pandemic.]”
“But YWCA overcame those challenges… That’s more than 8,000 people in our community annually who have benefited from Adrian, Adrian’s team.”
“The clients are…some of them are traumatized from sexual assault and domestic violence. So, you just can’t close your doors.”
Bracy said YWCA staff members met women fleeing domestic violence “at the parking lots, the grocery store, wherever…to get them into
The YWCA, which has operated in the St. Louis area in various capacities since 1904, currently offers various housing and crisis intervention programs for women and girls in need, as well as Head Start and Early Head Start programs. The nonprofit also offers teen leadership training and racial justice-oriented programs.
Photo by Bill Greenblatt / St. Louis American The
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Bush becoming the first Black congresswoman in Missouri); and Instagram Campaign (Kate Daniel, Rebecca Rivas, Ishmael Sistrunk, Dawn Suggs; The American’s promotion of the foundation’s Salute to Excellence in Education Scholarship & Awards Gala).
Second place awards were given for: Best Original Advertising Campaign (The American’s annual Free Reader Calendar); and Health (Sylvester Brown’s piece on Ronald L. Jones; COVID impacts the funeral business).
The American also received a third place A. Philip Randolph Award for Website Excellence (Ishmael Sistrunk.)
“We couldn’t be more proud. We don’t take these awards lightly,” said Donald M. Suggs, St. Louis American publisher and executive editor.
“These accolades from industry professionals are a testament to the consistent, professional work we strive to provide for our community.
“You can see from what is reflected in the vast variety of the different award categories that these and all of our work are a total team effort.”
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“Many are angry at the sentence handed down by the judge, but note that 22 and a half years is much closer to the 30 years requested by the prosecutor than the insulting probation requested by the defense.” Chauvin, 45, was convicted on charges of second-degree unintentional murder, third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter for his role in Floyd’s death.
Hennepin County District Court Judge Peter Cahill said he would issue a 22-page memorandum explaining his rationale for the sentence, saying it’s “not the appropriate time” to be “profound or clever,” according to ABC News. His sentence went 10 years beyond what was called for in sentencing guidelines.
Cahill said that was “based on your abuse of a position of trust and authority and also the particular cruelty shown to George Floyd.” Before announcing the sentence, Cahill told the Floyd family, ““I acknowledge and hear the pain that you’re feeling.”
Brandon Williams, Floyd’s nephew, also spoke to the court Friday, stating that it was “humanly impossible” for him to say what his uncle’s murder had done to him and his family. “The heartbreak and hurt goes far beyond any number of tears we could ever cry,” Williams said, adding that his family was “forever broken.”
Floyd’s brother, Terrance Floyd, spoke directly to Chauvin during his statement, asking the former cop what he was going through his head “when you had your knee on my brother’s neck?” Bell also had kind words for the Floyd family.
“My deepest condolences and prayers go out to the family and loved ones of George Floyd, who, despite the verdict and sentence, suffered a tragic loss that no verdict or prison sentence can undo.” Gardner echoed that thought, saying, “Unfortunately, I am saddened that in the end no amount of time will provide complete comfort or provide closure for Mr. Floyd’s family members and loved ones.”
CBS News reported that Chauvin attempted to console Floyd’s family.
“Due to additional matters at hand, I am not able to give a full formal statement at this time, but very briefly though, I do want to give my condolences to the Floyd family. There is going to be some other information in the future that would be of interest and, I hope things would give you some peace of mind — thank you,” he said. Prosecutors for the state of Minnesota had requested a 30-year prison sentence, saying it “would properly account for the profound impact of Defendant’s conduct on the victim, the victim’s family, and the community,” according to a sentencing memo.
Photo by James LeBine / St. Louis American
Donald M. Suggs, publisher and executive editor of The St. Louis American thanks the National Newspaper Publisher Association for its top honor, The John Russwurm Award, with staff members (from left) Mary Easter, front desk administrator; Alvin A. Reid, news editor and Dawn Suggs, acting digital director.
Storied Jamestown Mall to soon meet its end
By Dana Rieck
The St. Louis American
Leaders announced June 24 they intend to demolish Jamestown Mall, which has sat empty since it closed in 2014, so that the site can be used for a more community-minded development.
Councilwoman Shalonda Webb joined Port Authority Chairman John Maupin and Rodney Crimm, CEO and president of the STL Economic Partnership, to announce this change in plans at the St. Louis Economic Development Partnership in Clayton.
— one prior to the St. Louis County Port Authority’s announcement and one after.
“And even in both of those townhall meetings our residents were very forthcoming in sharing that they wanted something that would bring community development and even after I did some reaching out to get their feedback, the big thing was that we are a middle-class community and so we don’t want to industrialize our community,” Webb said.
n “We need a new way of doing business in North County as it pertains to our future.”
Webb
Councilwoman Shalonda
—
“We need a new way of doing business in North County as it pertains to our future,” Webb said. “No longer will it be passive, settling or insensitive to any decision or action as it pertains to the future of North County. I am and will be intentional and informed about how we will move forward together.”
On June 16, Webb publicly opposed the development plans for the shuttered Jamestown Mall — effectively halting the St. Louis County Port Authority in its tracks. The agency had announced in mid-May that they had entered a contract with NorthPoint Development to redevelop the site for industrial use.
The Councilwoman represents District 4, which encompasses Florissant up north to Pelican Island and east to Columbia Bottom Conservation Area.
She said Thursday that she held two town halls with her constituents
While Maupin said in his remarks the demolition will be “very expensive,” when pressed on an approximate amount he said anything he came up with would be “pure speculation.” He emphasized that they will need to abate the environmental issues at the site before moving forward with bids for the clean-up and demolition.
“The buildings are far beyond redemption, they’re not safe in any way, shape or form,” Maupin said.
The chairman, as well as the Crimm, said they are encouraged by Webb’s leadership and are optimistic about the partnership to get the community-minded redevelopment underway.
“I just want you to know that we at the Port Authority, we want to do something that is positive and something that is worthwhile with the Jamestown Mall site,” Maupin said. “It’s been our intention since we’ve owned it, we’re as embarrassed as anyone else about how it looks and what is going on out there. There is very little we can do to stop the
$4 million DOL grant to aid Justice Center returnees land jobs
‘Second chance’ program steers inmates to training, education
By Karen Robinson-Jacobs
American
Louis
The St.
About 400 detainees will receive training and support to help steer them toward jobs upon their release from St. Louis County’s Buzz Westfall Justice Center in Clayton, thanks to a $4 million grant from the U.S. Department of Labor. Family and Workforce Centers of America will position staff at the Justice Center and begin working with the returnees up to 180 days before their scheduled release, to begin “putting them on a path in order to achieve their goals,” said Carolyn Seward, the organization’s chief executive.
The grant – one of two issued in Missouri –comes as formerly incarcerated individuals continue to face hurdles finding jobs, even as cities like St. Louis enact measures such as “ban the box” to keep many employers from basing hiring or promotion decisions solely on an applicant’s criminal history.
The Labor Department grant signals that “DOL understands the importance of participants earning livable wages and beginning the ‘Pathway Home’ journey while they are still in the justice system, so when released back into the community, they have a network of support for achieving their training, education and employment goals,” Seward said. “This will be a positive impact for our families and communities.”
as tutoring or assistance getting a high school diploma.
“They will be relocating into the St. Louis County area, and we want them to be ready with skills and jobs at the end of the day,” she said.
The majority of those returning to St. Louis County from the Justice Center will return to areas where most of the residents are people of color, Seward said, adding that participants will be in the program for two years with a 12-month follow-up.
n “We’re building that bridge, so people are not wondering, ‘What do I do next, once I’m released?”
–
Carolyn Seward, CEO, Family and Workforce Centers of America
The program expands a similar effort the centers launched five years ago with DOL funds administered through St. Louis County.
Workforce Centers is one of two Missouri organizations to receive part of $85.5 million in labor department grants designed to help individuals who are now or once were involved in the criminal justice system gain employment and a second chance.
Springfield received a grant of more than $3 million, according to DOL.
The department’s Employment and Training Administration – which administers the grants – awarded 28 grants to organizations in 17 states and Washington, D.C. through the department’s Pathway Home program and Young Adult Reentry Partnership program.
Experts see job assistance not only as a way to boost a former inmate’s economic prospects, but also to reduce the chance that they will be reincarcerated.
As part of the program, Workforce Centers will do assessments, and provide individual employment plans and offer supportive services, such See
PeoPle on the Move
Baker
Jeanice Baker was appointed chief financial officer for Explore St. Louis, the destination marketing organization of St. Louis and St. Louis County and operator of the America’s Center Convention Complex. Baker previously served as a finance leader in various roles over 14 years with Bayer Corp., which was formerly Monsanto. Her most recent role was finance lead-controller supporting commercial IT, corporate innovation, investor relations and credit teams.
McMillan named chair of Board of Regents at HSSU
Michael P. McMillan
The Harris-Stowe State University Board of Regents announced Michael P. McMillan was elected chair of the Board of Regents at its annual June meeting. The Board of Regents serves as the governing board of Harris-Stowe State University and is charged with advancing the University’s mission and setting policy to guide the university. McMillan succeeds Attorney Ronald A. Norwood of Lewis Rice, who has served on the board since 2014 and as chair since 2015. McMillan currently serves as the president and CEO of The Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis, Inc. Baker named CFO at Explore St. Louis
LaShunda Gonzalez named Sr. VP LaShunda Gonzalez
McCormack Baron Salazar recently announced the promotion of LaShunda Gonzalez to senior vice president, director of government relations and communications. In this position, Gonzalez will represent and advance MBS’ business goals and legislative priorities before government decision-makers, including elected officials and their staff members, as well as government agencies. She will be instrumental in building government and corporate partnerships to leverage resources to support the company’s work. She will manage media relations and will work collaboratively with internal company leaders.
Cal St. East Bay names St. Louis native dean
Robert Williams
Robert Williams, associate dean in the Graduate College of Education at San Francisco State, has been named the new dean of the College of Education and Allied Studies at Cal State East Bay. Williams is a licensed clinical psychologist and was a visiting Fulbright Scholar from August 2001 to 2002 with the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus in Barbados in the Department of Government, Sociology and Social Work. Williams, who grew up in St. Louis, completed his doctorate at the University of Missouri – Columbia.
Rodney Crimm, CEO and president of the STL Economic Partnership, St. Louis County Councilwoman Shalonda Webb and Port Authority Chairman John Maupin announced last week that Jamestown Mall, which has sat empty since it closed in 2014, would be razed to clear the land for future development.
Jeanice
Photo courtesy of STL Economic Partnership
Secretary
Fudge, the first Black woman to hold the office, said her agency will work tirelessly to increase the number of Black homeowners in America during a speech June 18 in Cleveland.
HUD secretary wants more Blacks saying ‘there is no place like home’
St. Louis American staff
Student load debt and other factors are standing in the way of more Black Americans purchasing homes, says Marcia L. Fudge, Housing and Urban Development (HUD) secretary, and she vows to address them immediately.
“Homeownership is the cornerstone of the American Dream and the best way to build generational wealth. We have never fully embraced the Fair Housing Act in this country,” Fudge said June 18 during a speech at the Black Homeownership Collaborate at Cleveland State University.
“Today we do. When I say it’s a new day in HUD, it is a new day in HUD.”
Fudge, the first Black woman to serve as HUD secretary, said her department will support a plan called “3 by 30,” which aims to help Black people own a net of 3 million more homes nationwide by 2030. It will involve education and programs at local and federal levels in areas including homeownership counseling, making loans easier to acquire and building more housing stock.
“I am proud that Federal Housing Administration is taking action to make it easier for borrowers with student loan debt to qualify for a federally insured mortgage,” she said.
Grant
“This new policy will make a big difference for individuals throughout our nation and is another step in our mandate to promote equity and opportunity for homeownership.”
The FHA student loan monthly payment calculations will “take steps to remove barriers and provide more access to affordable single-family FHA-insured mortgage financing for creditworthy individuals with student loan debt, which has a disproportionate impact on people of color,” according to the agency.
The policy updates remove the requirement that lenders calculate a borrower’s student loan monthly payment of one percent of the outstanding student loan balance for student loans that are not fully amortizing or are not in repayment.
The monthly payment will now be based on the actual student loan payment, which is often lower, and helps home buyers who, with student debt, meet minimum eligibility requirements for an FHAinsured mortgage.
More than 80 percent of FHA-insured mortgages are for first-time homebuyers on average each year. More than 45 percent of these borrowers also have student loan debt, with much of this debt impacting people of color.
“These changes remove unnecessary constraints for oth-
erwise creditworthy borrowers and reinforce FHA’s ability to serve those who need us most, including first-time homebuyers and underserved communities,” said Lopa Kolluri, FHA principal deputy assistant secretary.
“It is critical that we reflect on all of the ways that racial discrimination is woven into our society, especially in our housing system. Too many generations of Black families are locked out of the opportunity to get an affordable mortgage, own their own home, and build wealth to pass on to their children and grandchildren,” said U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown, D- Ohio, Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs chair
“I commend HUD and Secretary Fudge for taking this first step to address inequities in our housing system and look forward to continuing to work together to increase access to homeownership and address disparities.”
Fudge, a Cleveland State law school graduate who served as the city’s U.S. Representative, said to loud applause, “When I say there’s no place like home, I meant that.”
“It is so good to be at home.”
In the state’s fiscal year 2020, more people who were released on parole had been sentenced in St. Louis city or county than in any other area of the state – 2,683 released
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lawlessness, the break-ins and trespassing.”
Karen Robinson-Jacobs is The St. Louis American / Type Investigations business reporter and a Report for America corps member.
Continued from A9 inmates or 14% of the statewide total, according to data from the Missouri Department of Corrections. Nationwide, more than 600,000 people are released from prison each year, according to the federal Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. Within three years of their release, more than half are incarcerated again. “We’re building that bridge, so people are not wondering, ‘what do I do next, once I’m released?’” Seward said.
When asked how this process will be any different than previous efforts, Webb said it’s the county’s commitment to the area.
“My first evidence is us
standing here together,” she said. “A commitment from the St. Louis County that they support North County, that’s different than what’s been done before. Also, I know that these are great men, and they are very knowledgeable, but we’re working together and I am the leader of North County and I will make sure we are accountable and transparent to the residents, the business owners, the laborers, all of us — we all need to be able to fit in and benefit from this opportunity. It may not be right now but it will come.” North County’s Jamestown Mall was an enclosed shopping mall located at Lindbergh Boulevard and Old Jamestown Road. The million-plus square feet of property was opened in 1973 and formerly included Dillard’s, JCPenney, Macy’s and Sears as its anchor stores. The mall began declining in 2000 and was finally shuttered in 2014.
HUD
Marcia L.
Photo courtesy of Essence
Bush passes first standalone bill, introduces public safety legislation
By Dana Rieck
The St. Louis American
U.S Rep. Cori Bush, D-St. Louis, passed her first standalone bill June 23, which makes improvements to the National Park Service and related programs.
This is the sixth piece of Bush-sponsored legislation that has passed through the House.
“Our National Parks preserve our environment and provide beautiful green spaces in our communities,” Bush wrote in a release. “St. Louis is home to a National Park — the Gateway Arch — which adorns our iconic skyline and bolsters our local economy. This bill will strengthen the U.S. Code that governs Gateway Arch National Park and parks across our country.”
Bush added that the bill will allow the National Park Service to coordinate activities that acknowledge and commemorate the Underground Railroad and the many sacrifices made by enslaved Black people who used the Underground Railroad to escape tyranny and oppression.
“I’m grateful to my colleagues for passing the legislation and look forward to its movement through the United States Senate,” she wrote.
The full text of the legislation can be found online at https://bit.ly/2SBc0NL.
Then, on Monday, Bush introduced the People’s Response Act, a bill that seeks to transform the nation’s approach to public safety.
The People’s Response Act would:
• Create a new public safety agency within the Department of Health and Human Services to fund and coordinate research, technical assistance, and grant programs related to non-carceral, health-centered investments in public safety
• Launch a federal first responders unit that will support states and local governments with emergency health crises
• Research alternative approaches to public safety, including coordination of research and policies that are being implemented across HHS and other agencies to center health-based and non-carceral responses throughout the federal government
• Provide $7.5 billion in grant funding to state and local governments, as well as community-based organizations, to fully fund public safety and improve crisis response
• Establish a $2.5 billion First Responder Hiring Grant to create thousands of jobs and provide funding to state, local, and tribal government, as well as community organizations, to hire emergency first responders such as licensed social workers, mental health counselors, sub-
stance use counselors, and peer support specialists, in an effort to improve crisis response and increase non-carceral, healthbased approaches to public safety
“It moves us toward a shared vision of what truly keeps Black people safe: dramatic investments in communities that have suffered from generations of systemic racism and economic exploitation, incentives for local governments to adopt critical non-carceral practices, and the creation of a federal community safety agency to make the critical link between public safety and public health,” wrote Kayla Reed, Executive Director of Action St. Louis, in a media release.
The bill was introduced by Bush along with representatives Ayanna Pressley, D-Massachusetts, Jan Schakowsky, D-Illinois and Pramila Jayapal, D-Washington. It is cosponsored by 13 members and endorsed by over 70 organizations.
The full text of the legislation can be found online at https://bit.ly/3dpnIm0 and the one-page summary of the bill can be found https://bit. ly/3w0nLet.
Other updates
Bush on Friday presided over the U.S. House of Representatives for the first time in her Congressional ten-
ure. According to her office, she is the first Black Lives Matter activist, Black woman and nurse to serve as Speaker Pro Tempore.
“St. Louis elected our state’s first Black Congresswoman, and today, St. Louis and I presided over the House Floor,” wrote Bush on Friday. “It was an honor to hold the gavel as we continue our work in the House to ensure a new future for our country — one that is rooted in equity. St. Louis and I look forward to holding the gavel again as we work to build safe communities where everyone is guaranteed a quality education, health care, a secure job, clean air, clean water, and housing.”
Bush also weighed in on city legislation on Tuesday by urging the Board of Aldermen to pass St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones’ proposed $80 million direct relief package, an initial investment of American Rescue Plan Act.
“The Board of Aldermen has been presented with a unique opportunity to decisively change the course of history for tens of thousands of St. Louis residents,” Bush wrote in a letter to the board. “I look forward to working closely with the board, the mayor, and my colleagues in the House to provide the highest levels of support for the people of Missouri’s First Congressional District. Thank you for taking my concerns into strong consideration.”
Photo courtesy of Cori Bush
U.S Rep. Cori Bush, D-St. Louis, on Friday presided over the U.S. House of Representatives for the first time in her Congressional tenure. According to her office, she is the first Black Lives Matter activist, Black woman and nurse to serve as Speaker Pro Tempore.
“Taking Care of You”
Resource Center case worker, are teaming up with colleagues to reduce the high percentage
in “vulnerable, near north areas.”
Unvaccinated numbers alarm County
As Delta variant spreads, Black population still lags in shots
By Sylvester Brown Jr.
The St. Louis American
“Let’s see; there’s ‘Vaccine Equity & Action.’ Another campaign is called, ‘Get the Facts!,’ said Christopher Ave.
“Yeah, and maybe we should add ‘get the vax,’” said Damon E. Broadus. Ave and Broadus, who work for the St. Louis County Department of Health, were recently brainstorming possible slogans for vaccine campaigns.
Ave, director of communications, and Broadus, director of health promotions and
public health research, said the county is desperately trying to partner with churches, community groups, businesses and literally anyone else who can help convince undecided St. Louis County residents to get vaccinated.
The county areas of highest concern are in majority or largely black populated zip codes.
Nebu Kolenchery, county director of communicable diseases response, met with his
Taking on maternal ‘toxic stress’
The St. Louis American staff
YWCA Early Head Start’s pregnant women services will receive a resource boost through a $75,000 grant from Healthy Blue. It can be allocated for assistance with rent or utility bills, food, formula, clothing and essential baby items.
“By addressing women’s basic needs and reducing toxic stress during their pregnancy and after delivery, we can ensure that both mom and baby are off to a great start,” said Stacy Johnson, YWCA chief program officer and Head Start director.
“Healthy Blue’s support will assist YWCA in meeting its goal of ensuring healthy delivery and sustained life for the at-risk population we serve.”
YWCA Early Head Start has a pair of Pregnant Women’s Centers serving 35 low-in-
come expectant mothers, 28 of whom are African American.
Located in areas with high infant mortality rates in St. Louis and Overland, the center provide education in overall health, nutrition, parenting and safety for pregnant women.
There are peer support groups and assistance in finding health care providers and insurers, financial support and community partners.
Black babies are three times as likely to die before their first birthday than white babies, according to the Missouri Department of Health and Social Services. The infant mortality rate is the number of deaths that occur for every 1,000 live births.
“Infant mortality is a complex issue that is affected by more than just healthcare,” Sarah Kennedy, Generate Health STL senior manager,
colleagues to discuss the high percentage of unvaccinated individuals in “vulnerable, near north areas.”
It is a phrase Kolenchery uses to describe neighborhoods like Normandy, Riverview Gardens, Ferguson/Florissant, Hazelwood, Jennings and University City.
County Executive Dr. Sam Page called education “the biggest barrier” between residents and vaccinations.
“There are two main pockets of people who are hesitant to get the vaccine: those who
A popular question from my patients is: “Which blood test screens for cancer?”
Another frequent question is: “Can I get an MRI to check my entire body for cancer?”
Though these questions seem simple, the answers are more complex. However, there is no screening blood test for cancer, nor is MRI used as a screening test for cancer.
n Per the American Cancer Society, people with average risk of colon cancer should begin screening at age 45.
On the other hand, in honor of “National Black Family Cancer Awareness Week,” I do want to share information about the evidence-based screening tests that are available. It is important to remember that recommendations shared with patients have gone through rigorous studies, have been validated and reproduced. Over time the guidelines can change when new information becomes available. Furthermore, not everything that you see on Google, Facebook or TikTok is true. Some articles and patient testimonials are just anecdotal and are not scientifically sound. Please consider using reliable sources such as cdc. gov or medlineplus. gov for health information or better yet, discuss with your trusted provider. With that in mind, let’s talk about those guidelines that have been recommended by organizations such as the American Cancer Society (ACS), the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF).
Colon Cancer Screening
Per the American Cancer Society, people with average risk of colon cancer should begin screening at age 45. Average risk includes persons without a family history or personal history of colon cancer, persons without a history of polyps and persons without a history of inflammatory bowel disease like
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Nebu Kolenchery, St. Louis County director of communicable diseases response, and Marilyn Peaston, a St. Louis Health
of unvaccinated individuals
Photo by Wiley Price / The St. Louis American
Cassandra Harris gives her baby a kiss at a YWCA Early Head Start Pregnant
Photo courtesy of YWCA Early Head Start
Denise HooksAnderson, MD
By Dana Rieck
The St. Louis American
A day after Cole County Circuit Judge Jon Beetem struck down an effort to expand Medicaid, attorneys for proponents of the expansion filed an appeal to the Supreme Court of Missouri.
One of those attorneys, Chuck Hatfield, tweeted that the Missouri Supreme Court has granted the joint motion for an expedited briefing and the case is scheduled for argument at 11 a.m. July 13.
That hearing will determine whether 275,000 Missourians will become newly eligible to receive health benefits under the state’s Medicaid program, referred to as Mo HealthNet.
Attorneys for the case have said they expect the case to be appealed up through the courts until it becomes before the Supreme Court.
The lawsuit was filed on behalf of three plaintiffs which sought an order for the Department of Social Services to allow all who are newly eligible to enroll and receive the same coverage as current program clients beginning July 1, even though the state legislator and Missouri Gov. Mike Parson failed to include money in the
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epidemiology and Evaluation, says on the city of St. Louis
Unvaccinated
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“Our main barrier at this point in St. Louis County is an education gap. We’re doing our best to work with community partners and organizations like churches. We have an advisory group located in St. Louis County where we have been focusing our efforts to bridge this gap through clergy, business leaders and other civic organizations in North County.”
Officials’ heightened concerns come when Missouri leads the nation with the highest rate of new COVID-19 infections. The recent surge is due largely to politically conservative farming regions in the northern part of the state and southwestern corner –which includes Springfield and Branson.
Although more than 53% of all Americans have received at
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Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis. Screening is typically every ten years but can occur more frequently depending on the medical history and the results of the screening test. There are basically two categories of testing options for colorectal cancer screening: stool-based tests and visual (structural) tests. The stool-based options include Highly sensitive fecal immunochemical test (FIT) –testing is every year. Highly sensitive guaiac-based fecal occult blood test (gFOBT)
“Taking Care of You”
State Supreme Court next stop on Medicaid trail
Arguments begin July 11 in Jeff City
state’s budget to pay for the expansion costs.
Missouri residents passed Amendment 2, a statewide initiative to expand Medicaid health coverage, in August. By lowering requirement thresholds for Medicaid beginning July 1, an additional 275,000 Missourians who struggle to make ends meet were supposed to have access to health coverage.
However, Beetem’s ruling was the latest in the state’s Medicaid saga, which began when House Republicans resisted the will of the voters by removing $1.9 billion allocated for the program’s July expansion when crafting the 2022 state budget. The Senate then also voted against funding the program expansion. Six days after the General Assembly presented Parson with the 2022 budget sans the expansion funding, the governor withdrew the state from its plan to expand Medicaid coverage altogether. Protests across the state were held following the announcement.
FRA Passage
As for the funding of the current program, the Missouri
website.
“Infant mortality is seen as the canary in the coal mine indicating that something is not right in our society. We live in a region with world class medicine, but Black babies are three
least one shot, most southern and northern Missouri counties are well short of 40%. Pulaski County, home of Fort Leonard Wood, had a scant 13% vaccination rate.
As new COVID-19 infections cross the state, a new variant adds more concern.
Last month, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) officially recognized the “Delta,” a variant that may carry a risk of more severe illness and transmissibility.
This variant, which originated in India, is sweeping through the United Kingdom and now makes up 20 percent of new coronavirus-related US cases.
Nearly all current COVID19 deaths are people who have not been vaccinated, according to the CDC.
What should be a staggering endorsement for the vaccine’s effectiveness, unfortunately, is not.
In the St. Louis area for instance, according to Dr. Alex Garza, the city’s chief community health officer, more than 90% of patients hospitalized with COVID-19 have not been vaccinated.
- testing is every year, and the multi-targeted stool DNA test (commonly known as Cologuard) - testing is every three years. The visual tests include Colonoscopy – testing is every 10 years, CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy)- testing is every five years, and the Flexible sigmoidoscopy (FSIG) –testing is every five years.
Cervical Cancer Screening
Per ACOG, pap smears should occur every three years in average risk women from age 21-29. At age 30, testing should occur every
Senate on Saturday passed a clean Federal Reimbursement Allowance (FRA) bill that is necessary to fund the state’s Medicaid program in a special session. The House followed suit Wednesday, with Parson expected to sign the bill shortly thereafter.
The bill did not include the controversial amendment that classifies Plan B and certain types of IUDs as drugs that
times more likely to die than white babies.”
Healthy Blue “continues to support maternal health in different communities. This is particularly important in communities where health
Kolenchery monitors situations that could become a public health threat like anthrax, STDs and hepatitis. The “St. Louis County Cares” website features color-coded swaths of “COVID-19 Positive Cases by ZIP Code.” The more active areas (per 100,000 residents) are highlighted in deep purple on the site.
When Marilyn Peaston, a case worker with the Health Resource Center in the city, saw the webpage on Kolenchery’s computer monitor, it broke her heart.
cause an abortion and make them more difficult for women on Medicaid to receive.
The legislature did not reauthorize the FRA (medical provider tax) in the regular session, as several GOP members wanted to include language in the bill that bans Medicaid coverage of certain birth control methods and blocks government funding of Planned Parenthood.
disparities have significantly affected outcomes,” according to Johnson. Healthy Blue is a Medicaid service offered by Missouri Care, Inc., a MO HealthNet Managed Care health plan. It
served an internship with the Resource Center as St. Louis University undergrads. When Kolenchery shared the map and predictions of possible Delta variant outbreaks in the county, particularly Black zip codes, Peaston knew she had to act.
n “Missouri is first in net new cases for the Delta Virus. There’s a surge in rural Missouri that’s going to make its way here.”
– Nebu Kolenchery, director of Communicable Diseases Response for the St. Louis County Health Department
“The majority of the areas were Black. I just couldn’t believe it,” Peaston said.
“It’s selfish of an adult to not get vaccinated, especially when kids 12 years old and younger don’t have a choice. They can infect these children and it’s just not fair.”
Peaston and Kolenchery
three years if performing pap smear only, every five years if testing with an FDA-approved primary hrHPV test, or every five years using the co-testing technique (pap smear plus hrHPV testing). Women who have undergone surgical removal of their uterus and cervix for non-cancerous reasons, no longer need pap smears as well as women over the age of 65.
Breast Cancer Screening
For breast cancer screening, ACOG and the ACS recommend starting yearly mammography at age
“I felt kinda hopeless, so I asked Nebu, ‘what can I do to stop this?’”
Kolenchery’s answer led Peaston to call The St. Louis American. Simply put, the team wants community partners to help spread a proactive message about vaccinations.
“There really is a sense of urgency and that’s why we want to create more partnerships specifically in the zip codes where people are unvaccinated,” Broadus explained.
“For example, we’re partnering with the Jennings school district to host vaccine
40 for average risk women. Women without a personal or family history of breast cancer, women without a known history of a genetic mutation that increases breast cancer risk (BRCA gene), or women without a history of chest radiation prior to age 30 are considered low or average risk. Women with a family history of breast cancer may need to start screening earlier and receive additional imaging studies such as ultrasound and MRI. Women should consult with their primary care provider to discuss their risks and develop the appropriate screening schedule.
State Rep. Sarah Unsicker, D-Shrewsbury, said “I am very concerned about losing our Medicaid funding and we are here to protect our Medicaid funding,” during a House Budget Committee hearing on reimbursement allowance taxes.
However, the House on Wednesday also passed a standalone measure that seeks to eliminate certain providers from participating in the state’s Medicaid program.
Various senators and Parson have pointed out that the provisions in that second bill risk the state’s federal Medicaid compliance and could jeopardize its funding. The future of this bill is unclear.
contracts with the Missouri Department of Social Services. YWCA Head Start and Early Head Start provide education and healthy development services for children from infancy to age five whose
locations. It’s why we’re working with Delta Sigma Theta sorority and universities. It’s why we’re hosting barber and beauty shop and faith-based initiatives.”
Ave said the partners recognize and respect the reasons of those who may be vaccine hesitant. For example, he said many people’s mistrust of the medical system is valid.
“If you look at that history, and not just the ancient history, there are legitimate reasons for mistrust. We get that. We respect that. However, it’s our job to make it as easy as possible for everyone to get vaccinated,” he explained.
Both Ave and Broadus believe making it “easier” revolves around trust and providing accurate information.
“I have family members who, no matter the science or research, say they’re not taking the shots,” said Broadus.
“Unfortunately, they get a lot of misinformation from social media, and it takes a lot to overcome misinformation with accurate information.”
The county wants to partner with ministers, politicians and immigrant and refugee agencies
Prostate Cancer Screening
Screening guidelines for prostate cancer are probably the most controversial and depend upon which governing body providing the guidelines. In 2012, the USPSTF recommended against routine prostate cancer screening for several different reasons. As a result of advocacy from several organizations, the USPSTF revised their guidelines in 2018 to say that for men aged 55-69, the decision to screen should be an individual one. The USPSTF and the American Urological Association recognize that for some men, such as African
The FRA tax is collected from hospitals, nursing homes and pharmacies and generates $1.6 billion annually. Missouri then receives an additional $3 billion in federal funds to finance the program.
“Today, Missouri legislators set the stage to fracture that system. Despite these attacks on healthcare, we will continue advocating for our network, our patients, and all Missouri communities in need of access to care,” wrote Michelle Trupiano, executive director of Missouri Family Health Council, Inc., in a statement Wednesday.
Missouri Sen. Brian Williams, D-St. Louis, wrote in his column that he believes the debate on abortifacients and Planned Parenthood should take place during the regular session so they can have “constructive conversation about these issues.”
“I am pleased that specifically listing IUDs, Plan B and contraceptives was left out of the bill, because I believe including them furthered the idea that they could induce an abortion if used in that manner, and that is simply not true,” he wrote.
family income is at or below the federal poverty level. Health screenings and multiple, varied programs involving parents and siblings are included with services provided.
like, Vintendo4Africa in North St. Louis County. The “Vaccine Equity & Action,” slogan Broadus and Ave mentioned is designed to acknowledge inequities while proactively informing underserved communities.
“We fight disinformation with good, legit information,” Ave said.
“Our job is to respect people’s beliefs and thought-making processes. Rather than doing a song-and-dance about how the vaccines work, we try to provide them with unbiased, real information.”
The main reason for the county’s increased outreach efforts are self-serving, Kolenchery stressed:
“Missouri is first in net new cases for the Delta Virus. There’s a surge in rural Missouri that’s going to make its way here. Honestly, we think it’s already here and spreading. Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself,” he said.
For more information visit: https://stlcorona.com/
Sylvester Brown Jr. is The St. Louis American’s inaugural Deaconess Fellow.
American men and men with a family history of prostate cancer, their risk is higher, and testing may need to reflect their risk of developing prostate cancer. Therefore, men should discuss with their providers about the proper time to begin screening. Following evidence-based guidelines can potentially be lifesaving. As always, please discuss with your provider for more information.
Denise Hooks-Anderson, M.D., FAAFP is an associate professor and SLUCare Family Medicine interim assistant dean of Diversity Equity and Inclusion
Photo by Tim Bommel/Missouri House
BET Awards celebrates ‘Year of the Black Woman’
Annual event returns to in-person ceremony
By Danielle Brown
The St. Louis American
BET continued its ode to Black excellence during the 21st annual BET Awards, which aired live from the Microsoft Theatre in Los Angeles on Sunday. After a year of going virtual, the show returned with a vaccinated live audience.
Attendees of the #CulturesBiggestNight sat on emerald and plum hued velvet couches spread six feet apart with matching throw pillows. A dimly lit lantern lamp sat atop corner tables that separated each seat.
“Year of the Woman” was quite fitting for this year’s theme, as we now have our first Black Vice President of the United States in the White House, Kamala Harris, and 21-year-old Sha’Carri Richardson, now the fastest woman in the world, heads to the 2021 Tokyo Olympic Games on July 23.
“The grace, the class, the edges, we are everything honey,” said Taraji P. Henson, actress and host of the awards. “Celebrating Black women isn’t a fad or a trend, it’s a forever mood.”
She presented roses to Issa Rae, Jazmine Sullivan, Zendaya and Kinloch native U.S. Rep. Maxine Waters, and sent praises to other phenomenal women who couldn’t be there. Henson’s contagious “larger than life” personality and brilliant wardrobe paid homages throughout the evening to some of her “all-time favorite women” and kept us entertained from start to finish.
She introduced the show descending from a swing on stage channeling Diana Ross with a perfectly picked bountiful afro dressed in a bronze shimmery jumpsuit and matching cape.
Other icons emulated included her donning a gold spaghetti strap mini dress and feathered wig as Tina Turner, a burgundy frock with silverstudded details, guitar, drumset and dark shades as S.H.E., Solid Hair Edges (a mock version of
H.E.R.), and more.
H.E.R, who won the Best Female R&B/Pop Artist award, performed with her signature dark sunglasses, rocking a white t-shirt with the late Jimi Hendrix’s face on it. While playing the drums and the guitar, the multi-talented singer
sang harmonious melodies to the smash-hit single “We Made It,” off her debut album, “Back Of My Mind.” “There wouldn’t be a lot of other genres if it was not for Black music,” H.E.R. said during her acceptance speech. “When they say R&B is
Black Rep, The Rep get real with Playwright Lynn Nottage
Telling the ‘Tale’ virtual roundtable held June 25
By Danielle Brown
The St. Louis American
What happens when the two most recognizable, nationally acclaimed local theatre companies in St. Louis collaborate?
A delightful treat for the audience’s ear. On June 25, The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis and St. Louis Black Repertory Company joined on Facebook Live and YouTube for a roundtable discussion titled Telling the ‘Tale’ with Lynn Nottage, the two-time Pulitzer Prizewinning playwright.
Adena Varner, director of learning and community engagement at The Rep, moderated a conversation between Hana S. Sharif, Augustin Family artistic director of The Rep, Ron Himes, founder and producing director of The Black Rep and Nottage, who shared insight into two of her key works that will be featured at both companies.
Mlima’s Tale is in production at the Rep now through July 11 at the Center of Creative Arts’ (COCA) Catherine B. Berges theatre. Sweat will open The Black Rep’s 45th season from September 8-26 at Washington University’s Edison Theatre.
Varner asked Nottage how her inspiration behind Mlima’s Tale came about. Nottage said the idea came from conversations she and Oscar-winning film director Kathryn Bigelow had about the poaching of elephants. Once they saw that they were both interested about the subject matter they decided to raise more awareness about the issue.
“At the time when we began having that
n “The grace, the class, the edges, we are everything hunny,” said Taraji P. Henson, actress and host of the awards. “Celebrating Black women isn’t a fad or a trend, it’s a forever mood.” Turning a Paige
Adena Varner, Director of Learning and Community Engagement of The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis moderated a discussion titled Telling the ‘Tale’ with Lynn Nottage on Friday, June 25 with Ron Himes, Founder and Producing Director of St. Louis Black Repertory Theatre of St. Louis and Hana S. Sharif, Augustin Family Artistic Director of The Rep to discuss Nottage’s plays Mlima’s Tale and Sweat on Facebook Live and YouTube. Screenshot from YouTube
conversation poaching was really reaching catastrophic levels,” Nottage said.
she couldn’t just tell the story of a magnifi-
dead, R&B is not alive, I’m like it’s in everything.” Sullivan was another R&B songstress who gave an extraordinary vocal performance with the help of Waters saying her catchy “reclaiming my time,” phrase, which is a line in her new single “Tragic.” Ari Lennox joined her on stage for a duet of their grown and sexy single, “On It,” from Sullivan’s latest album “Heaux Tales.” Sullivan’s album Heaux Tales won Album of the Year, and she accepted the award with her mother right by her side on stage. It was a
unexplainable happiness and nostalgic feelings that derive from the 1990’s are the inspiration behind their “No Worries,” EP, a seven-song instrumental project by
Paige Alyssa’s “No Worries” EP has sounds of 90’s video games
By Danielle Brown
The St. Louis American
“Cool” varies by definition, there’s subjectivity in what one person may consider as dope compared to another person.
Paige Alyssa, 28,
Monie Love, MC Lyte, Lil’ Kim, and Rapsody perform onstage at the BET Awards 2021 at Microsoft Theater on June 27, 2021 in Los Angeles.
Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for BET
you!”
special moment for her as two years ago she was battling breast cancer and Sullivan didn’t think she would live to see that moment.
“My mom is now remissioned and this is my prize, this is my gift, it means more to me than anything that she’s here with me,” Sullivan said during her acceptance speech. “She’s supported me with my life and pushed me all my life. I’m so grateful for her.”
Cardi B, who won Video of the Year and Best Collaboration for WAP with Megan Thee Stallion, shocked the world with the announcement of her second child with husband Offset, during a performance of their collaboration on Migos’ “Type S***.”
During her performance of “Thot S***,” Megan came out with a Black veil covering her face then removed it and began placing her hands on her knees giving us the best twerk as the song suggests. In addition to her wins with Cardi B, she also took home the awards for Best Female Hip Hop Artist and Viewer’s Choice Award for Savage (Remix) featuring Beyoncé.
“Everybody in the whole wide world knows how much I love Beyoncé,” Megan said. “Every time somebody did an interview and they were like Megan, what’s your dream collab? ‘I’ll be like Beyoncé,’ then it finally happened. Thank you so much Beyonce cause I love
Other performers included Lil Nas X, who sang “Call Be My Your Name,” with a performance that was a clear homage to Michael Jackson’s “Remember the Time,” music video; Andra Day, DJ Khaled, Silk Sonic, Moneybagg Yo, Lil Durk, Lil Baby, City Girls, Da Baby, Roddy Ricch, Tyler the Creator, Kirk Franklin, Mereba and Tone Stith.
To keep the saying going give people their flowers while they’re still here, Grammy
n Rapsody, Monie Love, Lil Kim, and MC Lyte performed a medley of Queen Latifah’s hits including “Just Another Day,” “Ladies First,” and “UNITY.”
Award-winning rapper, singer, and producer, Queen Latifah was presented with the 2021 BET Lifetime Achievement Award by fellow sister in hiphop MC Lyte.
Rapsody, Mary J. Blige, Megan Thee Stallion and more sang high praises to the legendary emcee in a video tribute.
Rapsody, Monie Love, Lil Kim and MC Lyte performed a medley of Queen Latifah’s hits including “Just Another Day,” “Ladies First” and “UNITY.”
“I wanna thank BET for creating an outlet for beautiful Blackness to thrive, shine when we couldn’t get played on the radio or get our videos played
in other places,” Queen Latifah said in her acceptance speech. “BET allowed us to be in our fullness.”
In honor of all the lives lost this year, a memoriam displayed the names and pictures of Shock G, Tommy “Tiny” Lister, Natalie Desselle Reid, Cicely Tyson, DMX and more. The memoriam ended with DMX and a touching tribute immediately followed. Wu-Tang Clan rapper Method Man embodied his true essence in his style of rap with his real, raw and grittiness on “Get At Me Dog.”
Hip-Hop collective Griseldo performed their collaboration, “Hood Blues,” off his posthumous album “Exodus,” and “Where The Hood At.” Actor Michael K. Williams was DMX’s doppelganger sporting a Black tank top, gold rope chain, camouflage pants and wheat Timberland boots while rapping the lyrics to “Slippin.” Swizz Beatz and The Lox joined for the “Ruff Ryderz Anthem,” and Busta Rhymes brought the perfect amount of showstopping energy to “Party Up (Up In Here).” The tribute concluded with the powerful “The Prayer IV,” skit from “The Great Depression” album and everyone throwing up the “X” symbol.
Other winners included Chris Brown, Best Male R&B/ Pop Artist; Giveon, Best New Artist; Silk Sonic, Best Group; Lil Baby, Best Male Hip Hop Artist; Andra Day, Best Actress; and Chadwick Boseman, Best Actor.
Photo courtesy of BET.com
Queen Latifah credited Black women and her mother when accepting her Lifetime Achievement Award at 2021 BET Awards
ISIdE SportS
By Earl Austin Jr.
Go getters!
St. Louis American All-Area Girls Track and Field Team
It was an outstanding year for girls’ track and field in the St. Louis metropolitan area, with four teams bringing home state championships.
Cardinal Ritter won the Missouri Class 5 state championship; Trinity won the Class 4 state title and STEAM Academy at McCluer SouthBerkeley won the Class 2 championship. On the Metro East side, Belleville Althoff made history by winning the Class 1A state championship, the first in the school’s history for girls’ track and field.
With the season closes, it is time to present the St. Louis American All-Area Girls Track and Field Team for 2021.
First Team
100-meter dash: Aniyah Brown, Cardinal Ritter (Fr.)
– The Class 5 state champion posted a time of 11.77 seconds in the state final.
200-meter dash: Aniyah Brown Cardinal Ritter (Fr.)
– The Class 5 state champion with a time of 24.08 seconds.
400-meter dash: Cheyenne
Melvin, STEAM Academy at McCluer South-Berkeley (Sr.)
– The Class 2 state champion recorded a time of 56.1 seconds, and is headed to Louisiana Tech.
800-meter run: Cheyenne Melvin, STEAM Academy at McCluer South-Berkeley (Sr.) – Got the state champi-
onship double by winning the 800.
1,600-meter run: Macy Schelp, Lutheran South (Sr.) – The Class 4 state champion. Won all three distance events at the state meet.
3,200-meter run: Grace Tyson, Lafayette (Soph.) –The Class 5 state champion in a time of 10 minutes 41.08 seconds.
100-meter high hurdles: Maya Anderson, MICDS (Soph.) – The Class 5 state
Biles
runner-up in a time of 14.02 seconds.
300-meter low hurdles: Chelby Melvin, STEAM Academy at McCluer SouthBerkeley (Sr.) – The Class 2 state champion in a meet record time of 43.23 seconds.
4x100-meter relay: Cardinal Ritter – The Class 5 state champions in a time of 48.38 seconds.
4x200-meter relay: Cardinal Ritter – The Class 5 state champions in a time of
1:39.93.
4x400-meter relay: Cardinal Ritter – The Class 5 state runners-up in a time of 3:59.54.
4x800-meter relay: Nerinx Hall – The Class 4 state champions in a time of 9:34.03.
Long Jump: Aaliyah Elliott, John Burroughs (Fr.) – Finished fourth in Class 5 with a jump of 18 feet 9 ¼ inches.
Triple Jump: Brooke Moore, Trinity (Jr.) – The
SportS EyE
With Alvin A. Reid
not at her best in
Senior Cheyenne Melvin of STEAM Academy at McCluer SouthBerkeley is the 2021 Missouri Class 2 state champion in the 400-meter dash and the 800-meter run. Melvin won four gold medals at the state meet to help lead the Bulldogs to the title. She and her sister, Chelby, are both first team members of the St. Louis American All-Area girls track and field team.
Discus: Jayden Ulrich, Triad (Sr.) – The Illinois Class 2A state champion with a state record throw of 168 feet-1 ¾ inches. Javelin: Sydney Juszczyk, Trinity (Sr.) – The Class 4 state champion with a throw of 151 feet 10 inches.
Second Team
100: Kaelyn Tate, Parkway Central (Jr.)
200: Leah Thames, STEAM Academy at McCluer SouthBerkeley (Jr.)
400: Nnenna Okpara, Parkway Central (Jr)
800: Savannah Lesher, Eureka (Sr.)
1,600: Mia Reed, Washington (Sr.)
3,200: Julia Ray, MICDS (Soph.)
100HH: Macee Rivers, Belleville West (Soph.)
300LH: Maya Anderson, MICDS (Soph.)
4x100: Belleville West
4x200: STEAM Academy at McCluer South-Berkeley
4x400: STEAM Academy at McCluer South-Berkeley
4x800: Lafayette Long Jump: Genesis Dixon, Kirkwood (Soph.)
Class 4 state champion with a jump of 39 feet 10 ¾ inches. High Jump: Eliza Maupin, Webster Groves (Jr.) – The Class 5 state champion with a jump of 5 feet 7 ¾ inches.
Pole Vault: Mason Meinershagen, Oakville (Soph.) – The Class 5 state runner up with a clearance of 12 feet 9 inches.
Shot Put: Jayden Ulrich, Triad (Sr.) – The Illinois Class 2A state champion with a throw of 51 feet 10 ¾ inches.
Triple Jump: Lauren Hoffman, Fort Zumwalt West (Sr) High Jump: Mason Meinershagen, Oakville (Soph.)
Pole Vault: Samantha Fischer, Ladue (Sr.)
Shot Put: J’dyn Green, Timberland (Sr.)
Discus: Elizabeth Bailey, Eureka (Sr.)
Javelin: Julia Crenshaw, Fort Zumwalt West, Sr.
St. Louis, but off to Tokyo as U.S. Gymnastics leader
There were two major sporting events in downtown St. Louis last Sunday. One was sold out. One drew just over 50 percent capacity. Simone Biles and U.S. Gymnastics attracted a capacity crowd of almost 21,000 to the Dome at America’s Center. The mighty St. Louis Cardinals drew 25,163 to Busch Stadium, far short of a sell-out crowd of nearly 50,000.
Biles and the gymnastics trials were the hottest ticket in St. Louis – and drew interest from fans around the world.
The Cardinals are mired in a month-long slump. It was hot and humid, and the game experienced an hour-long rain delay. Fans knew it would be a long, hot day, so many decided to pass on baseball.
Biles is the face of the U.S. Olympic team, and the region had more support for her on Sunday than the Cardinals. Hard to believe, isn’t it.
Biles’ every move was greeted with thunderous applause and cheers, and she received multiple standing ovations during the two days of trials.
St. Louis did not see Biles at her best – but it did get to see
the world’s greatest gymnast achieve her goal of reaching the Tokyo Olympics. She made more errors on Sunday than she made in total since 2018. She fell off the balance beam, stepped out of bounds on a floor exercise and slipped up on the uneven bars. Yet, she still heads into the Olympics as the overwhelming favorite to win multiple gold medals.
A frustrated Biles was reduced to tears, even after qualifying for the Tokyo games with an overall first-place finish with a score of 118.098.
“I’ve been emotional this whole week,” Biles told NBC after her challenging win.
“I can’t believe Olympic trials is here again. I can’t believe I’m here again. The journey has been surreal, five years later and we’re doing it again.
“I was just really upset, everybody came out here and gave their heart, and I just didn’t give my best performance.”
She heads to the Olympics as the team’s leader – and as the most recognizable face of all American athletes who will participate in the Games.
“I feel like I have a lot of wisdom and can guide them
through the meets,” Biles said. “I just want to keep everyone cool, calm and collected.”
Qualifying with Biles on the four-member women’s team are Sunisa Lee, Jordan Chiles and Grace McCallum, MyKayla Skinner and Jade Carey will compete as individuals and their scores do not count toward the team’s total.
The men’s team will feature Brody Malone, Yul Moldauer, Sam Mikulak, Shane Wiskus and Alec Yoder.
Summer Olympics gymnastics run from July 24 through
Aug. 3 at Ariak Gymnastics Centre in Tokyo.
Getting haters’ goat
Have you noticed Biles sports a goat on her leotards?
It has been there since 2019 when fans first began calling her the Greatest of All Time (GOAT).
“I don’t think of myself as the G.O.A.T. and that’s not why I wear the goat on my leo. It was kind of a joke in the beginning,” she told People magazine before this week’s
Simone Biles springs into a vault maneuver during the U.S. Olympic Gymnastic Trials in the Dome at America’s Center on June 26. She received thunderous applause throughout the weekend and, while not flawless, won the overall title and a place on the Olympic team headed to Tokyo in late July.
trials. “I wore one in 2019 and it was just funny because the haters were so upset. What we did is to kind of tick them off even more. So, I was happy because it is like good, now you guys are annoyed because you’re annoying me.” Spoken like a true champion – and Tom Brady. The Reid Roundup
Four-time gold medalist Serena Williams will not compete at the Summer
Olympics in Japan. Williams, a
on June 21 and followed up with its fourth annual QB Coaching Summit the next two days. There are only four Black GMs and three Black head coaches in a 32-team league where about 70% of the players are minorities. Eric Bieniemy, Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator, Houston Texans assistant coach Pep Hamilton, Philadelphia Eagles quarterbacks coach Brian Johnson and several other coaches made presentations. We will have to wait to see if they land head coaching jobs soon…MLB, its Players Association and the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum have joined to present 101 Negro League Baseball facts on social media platforms. The series began June 25 and runs through Oct. 3, the last day of the 2021 regular season. Videos can be found at (MLB.com/NegroLeagues101 and on the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum social media platform @NLBMuseumKC.)
Alvin A. Reid
Earl Austin Jr.
Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American
Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American
Rachel L. Hankerson, nationally renowned evangelist, passes at 47
The St. Louis American Staff
Services for nationally renowned Evangelist Rachel L. Hankerson will be held on Friday, July 2 and Saturday, July 3 at Kennerly Temple Church of Christ, 4307 Bishop Robert J. Ward Ave.
Bishop Elijah H. Hankerson called his late wife “my best friend.”
“My family and I wish to thank everyone for your support during the recent, sudden illness and unexpected passing of my wife. Our family is very close, so this has hurt us deeply.”
Rachel Hankerson passed away on
“Why is that old lady out here at this time of night?” was my first thought as I noticed a senior African American woman sitting by herself on a bench near a train platform at nearly 11 p.m. on December 17, 2018.
I was waiting with a group of friends for one of the late-night Trinity Railway Express train to take us back to Fort Worth, Texas. Even though I was still very hyped about having just seen Michelle Obama at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, I was intrigued by the woman and watched
June 20, 2021, at the age of 47.
“This is by far is the hardest announcement I have ever had to make in my life. But our consolation has come from the Saints. We yet trust God & still testify that ‘every time I turn around the Lord is blessing me. That is what she would want,” said Bishop Hankerson, who will eulogize his wife during Friday’s local celebration of her life. Public viewing is from 5-7 p.m., and the service begins at 7 p.m.
Presiding Bishop J. Drew Sheard, Church of God in Christ chief apostle, will serve as eulogist officiant of
Hankerson’s national service on Saturday. Public viewing is 8-10 a.m., and the service follows at 10 a.m.
The Hankersons founded Life Center International Church at 8500 Halls Ferry in June 1998. Evangelist Hankerson, who was known as “First Lady,” was nationally prominent and carried a message of encouragement to women to “live as ladies of destiny,
could talk to Mrs. Obama about making Juneteenth a national holiday. It then clicked in my mind who she was. I asked her if she was Opal Lee by chance.
her for a few minutes to see if maybe she was waiting on someone. But after a few minutes, no one joined her. “Where are her people?” I wondered.
I immediately thought of my mother and how I would not want her traveling by herself at that time of night. So, I did what is a part of my nosey…uh… inquisitive nature. I walked over to her and started a conversation.
After sharing that she loved Michelle Obama and had just seen her, she added that she was hoping she
Lee, who is often called “the grandmother of Juneteenth,” is an educator and activist whose campaign to have Juneteenth recognized as a national holiday culminated with the June 17 signing of a bill making it a national holiday.
dignity and purpose.”
She led Life Center’s women department, was an entrepreneur and the mother of three children: Elijah IV, Raquel and Matthew. Michael Eaddy, chair of the General Counsel of COGIC Pastors and Elders, remembers Evangelist Hankerson as “a powerful woman of God.”
“She will be sorely missed.”
She nodded her head yes to my inquiry that evening three years ago and then pulled a stack of papers from her purse explaining why Juneteenth becoming a national holiday was so important.
She stated that she was a little disappointed that she did not have a chance
Bishop Elijah Hankerson and his late wife, Evangelist Rachel L. Hankerson, founded the Life Center International Church 20 years ago and helped it grow into one of the area’s leading faith communities. Rachel Hankerson passed away on June 20, 2021, and services will be held on July 2-3 at Kennerly Temple Church of Christ, 4307
tions be made to Hankerson Children College Fund at via GiveLife, Life Center International Church. “Please continue to pray for us during this very difficult time,” said Bishop Hankerson. “Please pray for my children.” For additional information, call (314) 786-2801.
to meet with Mrs. Obama personally, but that she was going to keep trying. Her optimism was contagious as she added that she had faith and that she knew one day it would happen.
When I asked if she was traveling with anyone, with a determined twinkle in her eye, she declared that she was by herself. Before I could ask why, she stated that her people would not have wanted her to come and that they did not know she was there by herself.
At that point, I looked at her and said that she was no longer traveling by herself and that my co-workers and I would travel with her until she made it to her destination. We marveled at how sharp her mind was as she passionately shared her passion for
Juneteenth, as well as her first-of-theyear community dinner. Lee seemed like she was guided by an unyielding positivity and persistence.
She embodies Hebrews 11:1, “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”
Her belief in making Juneteenth has also led her to Washington DC, to host an ecumenical prayer breakfast, community festival, play and movie screening.
I thought about this first encounter with Lee as I watched the excitement on her face as she stood next to President Joe Biden when he signed the Juneteenth federal holiday bill into a law.
It was a breathtaking historical moment! Even more importantly, it showed the power of the faith of one person to make a difference in the lives of so many.
Guest Columnist Shewanda Riley
Bishop Robert J. Ward Ave.
Photo courtesy of Life Center International Church
SERVICE COORDINATOR –PUBLIC HOUSING FAMILY
This position involves general case management including intake, assessment, education and referral of residents to service providers in the local community. It also includes supportive services and other activities designed to help Public Housing residents attain economic and housing self-sufficiency. The successful candidate will also have the ability to coordinate marketing and outreach activities to maximize program participation of public housing residents including residents that are single parent heads-of-household and at-risk youth and transition age youth (18-21). Min. Requirements – BS Degree in Social Work, Psychology or Counseling is preferable or individuals who have relevant work experience. Starting Salary: $43,094 Annually. Apply via our website www.slha.org. Position will be open until filled. A Drug Free Work Place/EOE.
THE MUNY ANNOUNCES
AUDITIONS
FRONT DESK AND LOBBY ATTENDANT
HS Diploma with ability to use a computer. Excellent Customer Service Skills. Position involves heavy public contact. Responsible for greeting all Authority visitors and staff with a professional demeanor and ensures all visitors are signed in via applicable sign-in protocol. Must operate multi-line telephone system, routing telephone calls and directing clients while maintaining and providing a safe and secure environment for employees and visitors of the building. Position requires professionalism, timeliness, organization and the ability to learn and explain Authority policies. Starting Salary $31,187 Annually. Apply via our website www.slha.org. Position will be open until filled. A Drug Free Work Place/EOE.
FOR PRINCIPAL VIOLA/VIOLIN OPENING
The Muny will hold auditions for a principal viola/violin position on July 10, 2021 starting 11am. If you are hired by The Muny, you must be/or become a member in good standing of M.A.S.L. Local 2-197.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS
• Professional experience in Musical Theater
• Excellent Musical training/studies
• Solid technical and artistic skills in the musical field
• Excellent level of musical interpretation
• Versatility, ability to interpret a large variety of musical styles
• Ability to work as part of a team
Audition repertoire will be furnished via e-mail after receipt of your audition request. Applicants will need to bring both viola and violin. Sight reading excerpts will be provided at the audition.
To schedule an audition time or other questions, please contact James Heart via e-mail by June 25, 2021. jheart@muny.org
The Muny Orchestra is covered by a collective bargaining agreement with the Musicians’ Association of St. Louis Local 2-197, AFM.
The Muny is an Equal Opportunity Employer JANITORIAL
- HIRING
COMMUNITY RECREATION SUPERVISOR
The City of Clayton is hiring for a full-time Community Recreation Supervisor. Apply by 07/09/21: https://claytonmo. applicantpro.com/jobs/ EOE
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
Issued
Proposals
Feed
ATTN: Karen Lanter 171 Kingston Drive, St. Louis, MO 63125 (314) 631-4900
karenl@fmpstl.org
Introduction Feed
copy of a current MBE certification approval letter issued by a federal, state, or local governmental entity Selection Criteria
Proposals submitted will be reviewed by staff for completeness and qualifications. Selection of a firm will be made on the basis of the following criteria:
1. History and experience of the contractor in providing similar renovations in the past;
2. Availability and approach to provide the Services;
3. Approach to minority participation;
4. Cost, after application of any applicable MBE discount, as described above; and
5. Responsiveness to the RFP categories.
Feed My People actively encourages submission of proposals from disadvantaged business enterprises and companies owned by minorities, women, immigrants, and veterans. The Port does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, ancestry, national origin, disability, or veteran status in consideration of this award. Equal Opportunity Employer.
Terms and Conditions
The following terms and conditions apply to all proposals:
1. Feed My People reserves the right to reject any and all proposals submitted; to select one or more responding parties; to void this RFP and the review process and/or terminate negotiations at any time; to select separate responding parties for various components of the scope of the project; to select a final party/parties from among the proposals received in response to this RFP. Additionally, any and all RFP project elements, requirements and schedules are subject to change and modification. Feed My People also reserves the unqualified right to modify, suspend, or terminate at its sole discretion any and all aspects of this RFP process, to obtain further information from any and all responding parties, and to waive any defects as to form or content of the RFP or any responses by any party.
2. This RFP does not commit Feed My People to award a contract, defray any costs incurred in the preparation of a response to this RFP, or contract for any services. All submitted responses to this RFP become the property of Feed My People. All proposals may be subject to public review, on request, unless exempted as discussed elsewhere in this RFP.
3. By accepting this RFP and/or submitting a proposal in response thereto, each responding party agrees for itself, its successors and assigns, to hold the Feed My People, along with its directors, consultants, attorneys, officers and employees harmless from and against any and all claims and demands of whatever nature or type, which any such responding company, its representatives, agents, contractors, successors or assigns may have against any of them as a result of issuing this RFP, revising this RFP, conducting the selection process and subsequent negotiations, making a final recommendation, selecting a responding party/parties or negotiating or executing an agreement incorporating the commitments of the selected responding party.
4. By submitting responses, each responding party acknowledges having read this RFP in its entirety and agrees to all terms and conditions set out in this RFP.
5. Responses shall be open and valid for a period of ninety (90) days from the due date of this RFP Submission of Proposals
To be considered, proposals must be received no later than Friday, July 9, 2021, at 3:00 PM CST. Proposals received after the deadline identified above will not be considered.
Schedule RFP Published Friday, June 18, 2021
Questions Submitted by Friday, June 25, 2021
Questions Answered Wednesday, June 30, 2021
Submission of Proposals by Friday, July 9, 2021
Questions about this RFP should be sent by email to karenl@fmpstl.org. Any answers to questions will be provided to all interested parties and will be released as an addendum to this RFP on Feed My People’s website, https://feed-my-people.
above.
sent by email to karenl@fmpstl.org
BID NOTICE
Great Rivers Greenway is seeking bids from qualified firms to provide labor and materials necessary to rekey and master 450 Medeco Cylinders located throughout the Gateway Arch National Park and Old Courthouse (the “Park”) in St. Louis, MO. Go to www.greatriversgreenway. org/jobs-bids and submit by July 15, 2021.
PUBLIC
NOTICE
Interface Construction Corp. is bidding the Normandy High School –Secured Addition on July 13th at Noon We invite certified MBE and WBE bidders to submit your quote to: Bob Adams, Interface Construction Corp. (314) 522-1011 8401 Wabash Ave. St. Louis, MO 63134-1837 email: boba@interfacestl.com
SAINT LOUIS ZOO WASTE HAULING RFP 2021
The Saint Louis Zoo seeks bids from qualified contractors to submit proposals for Saint Louis Zoo Waste Hauling RFP 2021. Bid documents are available as of June 30, 2021 on the Saint Louis Zoo website: stlzoo.org/vendor
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
Sealed Proposals for B22-1206
Legislative Consultant Liaison will be received at Lincoln University Purchasing Dept 1002 Chestnut St, RM 101 Shipping & Receiving Bldg, JCMO 65101 until 2PM CT on 15July2021. Download Proposal Request at http://www.lincolnu.edu/web/ purchasing/bids
BID NOTICE
B i d s f o r Abatement & Demolition of Front Portion of Biggs Building, Fulton State Hospital Project No. M2018-01 will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, July 22, 2021 For specific project information and ordering plans, go to: http:// oa.mo.gov/
Great Rivers Greenway is soliciting bids for demolition of improvements at 1108 Stephen Jones Ave. in Wellston, Missouri. Go to www.greatriversgreenway.org/jobs-bids and submit by July 21, 2021.
PUBLIC NOTICE REQUEST FOR BIDS
Poettker-IMPACT Strategies JV, LLC, as the selected Design-Build General Contractor, is requesting Subcontractor bids for the SoGro Apartments project in St. Louis, MO. This is a taxable project.
This project consists of complete ground-up construction of a (3) separate, 4-story apartment buildings with a total of 179 units. Construction includes a new Clubhouse, Management and Leasing Offices, Sky Lounges/Decks, Police Station, and a Fitness Center.
Building Trade Work required for this job includes, but is not limited to Building & Site Concrete, Concrete Topping, Masonry, Structural Steel and Erection, Rough Carpentry, Structural Wood Materials, Damproofing and Waterproofing, Thermal Insulation, Weather Barriers, Siding, TPO Membrane Roofing, Fiber Cement Siding, Flashing and Sheet Metal, Gutters and Downspouts, Fireproofing, Penetration Firestopping, Joint Sealants, Metal Doors, Frames and Hardware, Flush Wood Doors, Overhead Doors, Entrances and Storefronts, Vinyl Windows, Drywall, Flooring, Painting, Toilet Compartments, Toilet, Bath and Laundry Accessories, Fire Safety Specialties, Postal Specialties, Wire Storage Shelving, Awnings, Parking Control Equipment, Residential Appliances, Stone Countertops, Elevators, Fire Protection, Plumbing, HVAC, Electrical, Electronic Safety and Security, Earthwork, Soil Treatment, Asphalt Paving and Pavement markings, Fences and Gates, Landscaping and Irrigation, and Site Water, Sanitary and Storm Utilities.
The SoGro Apartments project will comply with the Diversity Goals as governed by Ordinance 71094 of the City of St. Louis. Ordinance 71094 outlines Enterprise (Contract Spend) requirements.
Workforce Participation Goals are also included below.
Enterprise (Contract Spend)
African American - 21%
Hispanic - 2%
Asian American - .5%
Native American - .5%
Women - 11%
Workforce Participation (Boots on the Ground)
Apprentice - 20%
Minority - 25%
Women- 7%
City Resident - 23%
Successful Contractors will be required to participate in the St. Louis Development Corporation (SLDC) program (GPTS) for documenting compliance with the Workforce and Prevailing Wage Ordinances.
All proposals submitted on this project should include materials and equipment that are “bought in America” wherever feasible. Please note on your proposal if you are unable to comply with this request.
Poettker-IMPACT Strategies JV, LLC will be offering one VIRTUAL Pre-Bid Opportunity and one in-person Pre-Bid Meeting for this project. All interested subcontractors are encouraged to attend.
The Virtual Pre-Bid Meeting will be held at 3:30 PM on Tuesday, June 29, 2021 via Microsoft Teams. You do not need to have a Microsoft Teams account to participate. Please email EYost@buildwithimpact.com for the link to join the Pre-Bid Meeting.
The In-Person Pre-Bid Meeting will be held at 3:30 PM, on Thursday, July 1, 2021, at Employment Connection, located at 2838 Market St., St. Louis, MO 63103.
Project bid documents, as well as samples of Subcontract documents and insurance requirements can be viewed at IMPACT Strategies, Southern Illinois Builders Association, The Asian American Chamber of Commerce, The Congress of Racial Equality - North Central region, Cross Rhodes Print & Technologies, Employment Connection, The Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, MO-KAN plan Room and Mcgraw Hill Dodge. Documents are also available for view/download from GradeBeam.com and the following direct link: https://buildwithimpact.exavault.com/share/view/2fgdl-4urrwq0p
Subcontractor bids are due to IMPACT Strategies, Inc. by 2:00 PM on July 22, 2021. Bids should be emailed to Emily Yost. eyost@buildwithimpact.com
INVITATION TO BID
FERGUSON-FLORISSANT SCHOOL DISTRICT
FFSD is requesting bid proposals for Engineering Services until Fri, July 23, 2021, 11:00am CST.
Bid specs obtained online at http://new.fergflor. k12.mo.us/facilities-rfq
Contact/Attention: Terry O’Neil 314-824-2091
NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS
Lessie Bates Davis Neighborhood House seeks to contract with a mental health provider (firm or individual), accustomed to working with youth 11 to 17 years of age. The provider must practice with a trauma informed care approach to services. The contracted service provider will be paid from a grant, funded through January 31. Please contact ggaston@lbdnh.org for a bid packet. Closing time for bids is 4 p.m., on July 9, 2021.
Notice is hereby given that The Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District (District) will receive sealed bids for Re-Bid Union Road 100 Block Storm Improvements
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
George J Shaw is looking for qualified firms to submit quotes for the University of Missouri Health Center Children’s Hospital Structural Concrete package. GJS request pricing for concrete, reinforcing steel, Pumping, formwork, placing, finishing, waterproofing, joint sealant and other Concrete related trades. Plans can be viewed at https:// securecc.smartinsight.co/#/ PublicBidProject/588398
Please contact Phil Tournor, ptournor@gjshaw.com with inquiries
INVITATION FOR EQUIPMENT BIDS
East-West Gateway Council of Governments is seeking bids for portable x-ray units, chain saws and chains, hazmat detection monitors and tactical headsets. Bids are due 07/28/2021. Funding is provided by the U.S. Dept. of Homeland Security. MBEs / WBEs are encouraged to submit bids. Find details at www.ewgateway.org
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
Altman-Charter Co., requests subcontractor/supplier proposals for the Renovation of Winter Garden Senior Apartments in St. Louis, MO. This is the renovation of 112 units and common areas throughout the building. Proposals are due at the office of Altman-Charter Co., 315 Consort Dr., St. Louis, MO 63011 on or before Thur., July 22, 2021 at 3:00 PM (CT). Qualified Minority, Section 3, and Women owned businesses are encouraged to submit proposals. Plans can be viewed at FW Dodge, Construct Connect, SIBA, MOKAN, Cross Rhodes Reprographics and the Altman-Charter plan room in St. Louis. Bidders should contact Mr. Greg Mehrmann with any questions or to submit a proposal at gregm@altman-charter.com. Our telephone # is (636) 207-8670, and our fax # is (636) 207-8671.
Bids are requested by June 6th, 2021 EOB
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
3049 Processing Facility – Notice is given that FiCON, Inc. St. Louis, MO, General Contractor, will receive proposals for the 3049 Processing Facility at 3049 Chouteau Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63103, including building infill for new food processing facility, until July 22, 2021, at 5:00 p.m. CDT. A live prebid walk through will be held on site on Tuesday July 13 between 8 and 11 a.m. Proposals will be accepted at FiCON, Inc.’s office at 181 Northwest Industrial Ct, Bridgeton, MO 63044 (314 427-4099), by mail, fax (314 427-6646), email (info@ficoninc. com), or hand delivery. Plans and specifications can be viewed at ficoninc.com and sldcplanroom.com
SEALED BIDS
Bids for HVAC R e n o v a t i o n , Albany Regional Office, Project No. M1905-01, will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1 : 3 0 P M , 7/15/2021 via MissouriBUYS. Bidders must be registered t o b i d . F o r specific project information, go to: http://oa.mo. gov/facilities
for Replace
Center, Mineral Point, MO Project No. C1923-01 will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, July 22, 2021 For specific project information and ordering plans, go to: http://oa.mo. gov/facilities
Operations Manager, at 314-546-0074 or by emailing request to hcilingir@gsastl.org
NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS
Paric Corporation is seeking proposals for the following project: Missouri Teaching Hospital Fitout Space 2W for the University of Missouri in Columbia, MO. This is the renovation of the 2nd floor of the Teaching Hospital. The project consists of approximately 7,770 SF of space and includes but is not limited to demolition, carpentry, architectural woodwork, fire stopping, Doors/frames/hardware, drywall, tile, acoustical ceilings, flooring, painting, fire sprinklers, plumbing, HVAC and electrical work.
This project has a diversity participation goals of 10% MBE, 10% combined WBE, DBE, Veteran Owned Business and 3% SDVE.
Bids for this project are due on July 12th, at 2:00 p.m. For any questions or would like to find out more detailed information on this opportunity, please contact John Davis at 314-704-6075 or jcdavis@paric.com.
All bids should be delivered to Paric via e-mail (bids@paric.com) or fax (636-561-9501).
PARIC CORPORATION IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
NOTICE OF APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM OPEN ENROLLMENT
You may have what it takes to be successful in the construction industry if you are…
- Dependable
- Someone that enjoys hands-on work
- Someone that works well in a team environment
- Someone that is looking for a career with room for growth
- Someone that wants to help build their community
Associated Builders and Contractors Heart of America is accepting applications for its Pipefitting and Plumbing Apprenticeship programs. All programs take place at our Eastern Missouri Training Facility.
To apply you must be 18 years or older, attend a scheduled orientation, and submit an application including the following documents in person: Valid Driver’s License High School Diploma or Transcripts or a GED Certificate DD214 – Veteran Documentation (if applicable)
Please visit www.abcksmo.org for more information and to complete an interest form in your trade of choice. Staff will contact you to schedule a time for you to attend an orientation.
All minorities, including women, are encouraged to apply. The recruitment, selection, employment and training of apprentices during their apprenticeship shall be without discrimination because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, creed, disability or sexual orientation. All contractor members are Equal Opportunity Employers.
Advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, imitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial\status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.“We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.”
“blerd,” (Black nerd). The young millennial born in 1993 has no problem expressing their love of Sonic the Hedgehog, cartoons or other video games.
“I like seeing Black people have these conversations because a lot of people think Blacks are monolithic and that we all grow up liking the same things,” Paige Alyssa said. “But there are so many Blacks out there who enjoy quote-unquote nerdy things, and I think it’s a really cool contrast to see somebody who looks like me vibing over this really specific culture.”
The multi-talented artist recalls playing Sonic and other games as a child in their grandmother’s den as one of the most joyous times of their life. The unexplainable happiness and nostalgic feelings that derive from that era are the inspiration behind their “No Worries,” EP, a seven-song instrumental project mixed and mastered by Paige Alyssa with the help of Sam Maul, Shock City Studios’ chief sound engineer, on the finishing touches.
“I’m honored to be a part of this project, and I think Paige has a great talent and a lot of versatility,” Maul said. “I’m really excited and honored to be a collaborator.”
The EP’s title track is the introduction that cohesively piecing together the project sonically. As the song suggests, Paige Alyssa didn’t have a care or a worry in the world when they were a kid.
As the project’s journey continues, each track travels through a quest of Paige Alyssa’s progression taking a leap of faith by moving across the country and then moving back to their hometown.
They first gained momentum to start producing it while they were living in Los Angeles when they were about 24 or 25.
Being miles and miles away from home caused them to become homesick.
“It originally started as an exercise for me while I was living on the West Coast because I wasn’t working as much as I used to,” Paige Alyssa said. “When I moved out there I was missing my band and everyone else.”
They made the choice to create a body of work that made them feel safe and connected back home. In turn, they began
reflecting on those memories they had playing video games at their grandmother’s house because that’s where they felt safest.
As a result, Paige Alyssa began composing these oneminute songs that reminded them of their childhood. Each represents that timeframe of being in Los Angeles and moving back to St. Louis.
“I’m really happy to be home,” Paige Alyssa said. “I wanted to dedicate this project
cent elephant at the center of Mlima’s Tale.”
elephant to the consumer.
“While I was writing Mlima’s Tale I also realized that I was really telling the story of climate change, a shrinking ecosystem, poverty, and Africa,” Nottage said. “It covers what deforestation is doing to the people of Africa and how the competition for food between wild animals and human beings leads to the poaching of the magnifi-
Sharif has found that audience members at The Rep always leave the theatre feeling profoundly open after seeing Mlima’s Tale. She said they tend to question themselves, especially people who didn’t fully understand the depth of the effect poaching has on elephants.
“Some folks are questioning the ivory in their own homes and reflecting on their last experiences,” Sharif said. “Those who have been on a safari notice the majesty of the heart and epic nature of these
to my mother and all the other musicians that got me to this point.”
Paige Alyssa said the process for constructing those reminiscent sounds comes from a combination of them knowing the music and what type of physical chords to use for similar sounds; and also a lot of engineering.
“I’d play a sound and then I would go in and manipulate different parts of the sound to make it sound more ‘90s, more
creatures.”
According to Nottage, when fans come to The Black Rep’s production of Sweat they can expect to watch the story of a close-knit group of friends who work at a steel factory in Reading, Pennsylvania, unfold. All while being locked out of their factory due to corporate greed, they experience racism in unexpected violent ways.
After an interaction in 2011 with a close friend who was in dire straits due to her finances, Nottage knew she had to do something. At the time she went to Occupy Wall Street to share her frustrations about the
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Registration is now open for fall 2021 classes. Get the classes you need and make 2021 count!
Paige Alyssa, 28, sets themselves apart from the pack proudly referring to themselves as a “blerd,” (Black nerd). The millennial, born in 1993, has no problem expressing their love of Sonic the Hedgehog, cartoons or other video games.
Photo Credit: RJ Hartbeck
gritty or have that little byte to it that you hear while playing an arcade game,” Paige Alyssa said.
They said they learned how to mix the project themselves and leaned on Maul’s direction to master it.
“I mastered the project, but I also had some input on mixing as well, which basically means they gave the songs to me each in a format that was a collection of individual files to be put together and given a final polish,” Maul said.
In addition to the EP, a four-week long video series via Paige Alyssa’s Instagram, Facebook and YouTube pages
economic inequalities transpiring in the Zucotti Park. She found that impact still wasn’t powerful enough, so she took a trip to Reading, which was what she described as one of the poorest cities in America. There she met with the mayor, police chief and other members of the community to learn about what was happening in the city.
“I noticed whenever people talked about Reading they never spoke in present tense, it was always Reading was,” Nottage said. “I knew I wanted to tell this story of a fractured American town that was frac-
tured along racial economic lines.”
When Himes and his wife first saw the beginning of Sweat he thought he was in the wrong, but as the scene progressed he thought the meaning behind it was a “very good place.”
“Lynn’s production has a voice that I love,” Himes said. “There’s a way that she deals with and speaks to humanity that has a voice some don’t have.”
Supporters of Nottage can look forward to The Watering Hole, an immersive installment that reimagines an interactive
accompany it which features some of St. Louis’ leading musicians performing several of the tracks; including Chrissy Renick, Scooter Brown, Phil Graves and more.
“Those are my friends, my buddies, because this project is so personal to me I really wanted to pick people who I love and look up to genuinely,” Paige Alyssa said. “They’ve seen me from when I was fresh out of college trying to make it in the local music scene to the person I am now arranging, writing, and producing.”
Paige Alyssa, who identifies as a Black queer femme/masculine gender-bending person, said with everything going on in the world they find refuge in creating music that is joyous and relatable for all Black people and queer-identifying people.
“I create music from a standpoint in a world I can exist in, be happy in and express joy even if people outside of my world think I don’t deserve those things,” Paige Alyssa said.
“No Worries” is available on all digital streaming platforms.
Visit paigealyssamusic.com for more information about them and their music.
and collaborative space for BIPOC theatre makers to make their art better represented post-pandemic; a comedy titled “Clyde’s,” about a group of formerly incarcerated people working at a sandwich shop owned by the devil; and “MJ: The Musical,” a nontraditional musical with music from Michael Jackson’s catalog. For more information about Mlima’s Tale, visit The Rep’s website: http://www.repstl.org/ events/detail/mlimas-tale. Visit The Black Rep’s website for more information about its current season: https://theblackrep.org/.
$650 for all Bus Drivers, Fuelers, and Bus Cleaners hired on or before August 31, 2021!
$250 the first of the month following 30 days of employment, then $200 at 6 months, and $200 at a year.
Bus Drivers: $17.50/hr with an increase to $18.50/hr after training, and top pay over $26.00/hr
Bus Fuelers: Night position 7 p.m. – 3:30 a.m. $16.00/hr
Bus Cleaners: Night position 7 p.m. – 3:30 a.m. $15.50/hr