July 28th, 2022 edition

All in the family

LouiS AmericAn

Jones, Bush act swiftly

By Alvin A. Reid

Mayor Tishaura O. Jones and Congresswoman Cori Bush immediately acted after torrential rain caused widespread flood damage in the city and north St. Louis County.

Jones declared a state of emergency, which enables Missouri, if granted, to request federal support to bring relief to residents and small businesses.

Bush called for Gov. Mike Parson to request federal assistance on Tuesday, after speaking directly with Lt.

Jones walks with U.S. Rep. Cori Bush and local residents as they assess damages in the city’s Ellendale neighborhood.

Bush, Roberts showdown more than moderate vs. liberal

Allegations follow challenger

But by the time she finished speaking, the number had doubled despite the rain still coming down.

for Congresswoman Cori Bush’s re-election campaign huddled together.

The event’s organizer, St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones, took advantage of the captive audience.

“Even in the rain, we have the faithful few who are out here because we know what’s at stake,” Jones said to about a dozen people.

Mayoral summit tackles gun violence prevention

Mayors Jones and Lucas take steps to stem the overflow of illegal guns in St. Louis and Kansas City

in partnership with the African American Mayors Association last week.

Incumbent taking on first timer

“I have never seen the kind of cooperation and collaboration between a federal office and a local office as I see between our offices,” Jones said of working with Bush. “Our staffs’ talk to each other more than we know, but we make sure that we are in sync.”

In total, Bush’s campaign touts that she has brought $1 billion in federal relief funds to her district, including $200 million for St. Louis Public Schools and $200 million for the federal Child Tax Credit program. She was also able to get a $600,000 earmark recently to help build St. Louis a new 911 dispatch call center. For Bush and her supporters, that fluidity between local and federal government is among the biggest things at stake in the Democratic primary, where state Sen. Steve Roberts is challenging her.

The 1st Congressional District includes all of the City of St. Louis and North St. Louis County, along with pieces of the central corridor such as Clayton and Webster Groves.

country right now.’

Page said he is the better choice for county executive, “because my values line up better with

The St. Louis American

staff

Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American

By Rebecca Rivas The Missouri Independent

Congresswoman Cori Bush speaks to canvassers on July 9 at Fairground Park in North St. Louis, with St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones, left, and former state Rep. Bruce Franks, right.

Mayor Tishaura Jones and Miramar, Florida Mayor Wayne Messam

Photo by Rebecca Rivas / The Missouri Independent

St. Louis Mayor Tishaura

Kevin Samuels’ death result of hypertension

Hypertension, the silent killer, has been confirmed as Kevin Samuels’ cause of death two months after his passing.

Samuels, an image consultant, and YouTube entertainer popular for his relationship advice videos died May 5, 2022. After complaining of chest pain, he collapsed.

According to The Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Officer’s evidence, his heart had thicker chambers than normal. It’s also reported that Samuels was prescribed Atenolol, a medication linked to hypertension treatment.

Read more information about his death on NBC News’ website.

Florida woman’s mystery dipping sauce raises safety, legal concerns

People are wondering what the ingredients are in Miami-based Chef Pii’s mystery pink sauce, and discussion has gone viral on TikTok.

Many wonder if the sauce can be refrigerated, some say its packaging leaks, and others question if it complies with the Food and Drug

Administration regulations.

“You really saw a woman making bubblegum buttermilk ranch in her kitchen in a Ninja blender and you was like, yep, now’s the time to support small businesses, I’ll take three. Not me!” TikToker Demetrius Fields said in a post. “I saw her and was like, [bleep] her dreams. And that’s why I’m alive, and you’re in the ER.”

Pii has racked up more than 40 million views of her dipping chicken, french fries, and other foods in her secret concocted creation. She is on the defense over her concoction, which she claims includes sunflower seed oil, raw honey, milk, distilled vinegar, and pitaya [dragonfruit]. She told the Washington Post her product is legal, safe, and certified by the FDA.

Jazz bassist, R&B singer Michael Henderson dies

Jazz bassist and R&B singer Michael Henderson, whose hits included “Take Me I’m Yours” and “Wide Receiver,” has died at 71. His official Facebook page shared news of his death.

“Singer, Songwriter, Bass Innovator, Music Producer, Father, and Son Michael Henderson has peacefully made his transition sur rounded by family and loved ones today at his home, Atlanta, Georgia... Bless his heart and soul... He touched the lives of many and returned

that love through his many live concerts, music recordings, social media, interviews, and incessant touring, which he loved,” the post reads.

His cause of death hasn’t been revealed, and details concerning his funeral are ongoing. Henderson’s death comes a month after his hospitalization at Emory University Hospital in Atlanta.

Henderson’s music has been rerecorded by Beyoncé, Jay-Z, LL Cool J, and others. He was recognized by the National Rhythm and Blues Music Society in 2015, and received multiple Grammy Award nominations.

Metro Boomin pays off mortgage of Aaron Salter Jr.’s family home

Metro Boomin lost his mother, Leslie Wayne, last month in a murder-suicide by her husband (not Metro’s biological father).

While he is still battling the indescribable grief from his mother’s untimely death, he’s found generosity in his heart to help another family who also lost a family member to He paid off the mortgage for the home and Aaron Salter III the wife and son of Aaron Salter Jr., a retired police officer who was one of 10

Black people killed by a white teenager in a Buffalo, New York, supermarket shooting while trying to save others.

The unexpected blessing comes two months after the tragic incident. Salter III told ABC News that

Metro reached out to him directly after seeing a GoFundMe he launched to help his mother with finance, which raised almost $65,000. Salter III said his family learned of the gift in an Instagram post.

“He said my story resonated with him because he called my dad a hero and said he did everything he could to protect those people. He saw the story and just wanted to help us out in any way he could,” Salter said.

He said his mother Kimberly was stunned when he told her about Metro Boomin’s gift. “She was like, ‘he’s doing what?’” Salter III said. “She didn’t believe it until she logged into her account and saw that it was paid off. And when she saw it was paid off, she was very emotional. She was very happy.”

Hitman Holla signs TV deal for rap competition show

Hitman Holla’s battle rap skills and TV work with MTV’s Wild’N’ Out have led to a TV deal.

“I jus signed a TV

Family tragedies inspired Trudy Busch Valentine to enter U.S. Senate race

Says racism

“deeply hurts” Black community

By Rebecca Rivas Missouri Independent

For 12 days, Trudy Busch Valentine never left her sister’s side as nurses and doctors did everything they could to save her. Valentine was 17 when her 8-year-old sister was in a car accident and suffered a severe spinal cord injury.

“That’s where I saw the nurses with the compassion and the competence and the clinical skills,” Valentine told The Independent, “and just caring so much about her and caring about the family… I wanted to go into pediatric nursing.”

After the loss of her sister, she went on to earn her nursing degree and worked at the Salvation Army Residence for Children in St. Louis for three years caring for vulnerable and homeless children.

Throughout her life, moments of immense grief have driven Valentine towards new paths — including earning a degree in theology and serving as a volunteer hospice nurse after her husband died of cancer in 2002. Following her son’s death in 2020 from an opioid overdose, Valentine felt drawn to do whatever she could to fight the opioid epidemic and improve access to quality healthcare.

In March, Valentine entered the race for U.S. Senate, becoming one of 11 candidates seeking the Democratic nomination to replace retiring U.S.

Sen. Roy Blunt. Like the other Democratic candidates in the race, Valentine has never held public office before.

Valentine is a member of the family that owned a majority stake in Anheuser-Busch until the brewing company was sold to InBev in 2008 for $52 billion. Forbes magazine in 2020 listed the family’s wealth at $17.6 billion, the 16th largest family fortune in the nation.

In addition to her son’s passing, Valentine said she was also inspired to enter politics out of a desire to speak up for women’s rights. She also has grave concerns about the idea of former Gov. Eric Greitens being Missouri’s next U.S. Senator.

On the Friday evening after the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to strike down Roe v. Wade, Valentine attended a rally at Planned Parenthood in St. Louis, previously the only clinic in Missouri that performed abortions.

Holding a bright pink, “Bans off our bodies,” sign up high, she cheered on the speakers and had side conversations with other women nearby.

“It takes away the autonomy, the intelligence, the independence of a woman that we’ve worked so hard to gain,” she said of the court’s ruling.

Valentine’s first major policy proposal, released in May, focused on helping drug addicts recover by using leverage in the federal payments for Medicaid to increase rates to providers, quicker access to treatment and ex-

dent of the St. Louis County NAACP, Bowman said he understands that Valentine must do some fast learning about how different policing looks in the Black community.

“On the hard on crime stuff, it’s got to be a major reset,” he said. “It’s what I call an unlearning and re-educating yourself. And those things will make her a strong representation of all the people and that includes my community especially.”

On June 30, Bowman arranged a tour of one of the programs at Annie Malone Children and Family Services that cares for children who are experiencing homelessness and trauma — work that Valentine says is close to her heart. Annie Malone has been a pillar in the Black community since 1888, and that history is celebrated every year with a May Day parade that Valentine walked in this year.

Valentine met with Keisha Lee, Annie Malone CEO, and learned how a flood in January devastated the building where most of their educational programs are held.

“You’re changing communities,” Valentine told Lee. “Please keep teaching me. Whatever I can do to help, please keep in touch.”

panded use of telehealth. They were inspired by her own son’s struggles with addiction.

Last month, Valentine released a 17-point plan for “Strengthening the Middle Class,” which includes raising the federal minimum wage to $15 an hour, expanding options for affordable housing and lowering the cost of medications.

In any statewide Democratic primary, securing the Black vote is paramount to win — but that will be

especially true for a statewide candidate who calls St. Louis her base.

Every candidate that has secured a city-wide office in St. Louis in recent years has put public-safety policies at the top of their platforms. And those policies have specifically addressed structural racism and police brutality in the Black community.

Valentine hasn’t done that yet.

John Bowman is acting as a political consultant for Valentine’s campaign.

Not speaking in his capacity as presi-

Valentine said she believes that racism has deeply hurt the Black community, and that needs to be discussed — including through talks about reparations.

“We need to talk about slavery and taking people’s rights away,” she said. “And if we don’t learn from it, we will repeat it again. I promise I will look more at reparations, to study it and become more acquainted with it,” she said.

Photo by Rebecca Rivas/The Missouri Independent

U.S. Senate candidate Trudy Busch Valentine visited a building at Annie Malone Children and Family Services in St. Louis that had been devastated by a flood in January. Keisha Lee, Annie Malone CEO, explained how the building’s damage has impacted their mission of serving at-risk youth.

The American’s endorsements for the August 2 Democratic primary

U.S. Senate

American society is at another historic crossroads as one of its two major political parties has embraced a politics that rejects the fundamental requirements of a multiracial democracy. That makes the upcoming national elections in November of vital importance. The Republican party now dominated by Donald Trump (and buoyed by the religious right, social conservatives along with an unprincipled but influential far right media) along with an unfavorable economy, is poised to regain control of the U.S. Congress. That makes every contest for both the U.S. House and Senate of critical importance. Democrats must go all out to try to win any contest they can.

In Missouri, a Democratic candidate for the Senate has a monumental task. Yet there could be a path to victory depending on who Trump gives his nod to in the Senate race as well as the impact of the candidacy of Republican John Wood as a ‘nominal’ mainstream independent. In any case, we feel that Trudy Busch Valentine affords the best opportunity to return the Senate seat in Missouri to the Democrats. She will need the support of voters who have been aroused by the threats represented by a hard right Supreme Court majority, and a Republican party that has become a supplicant to Trump’s absurd “BIG LIE” about the outcome of the 2020 presidential election, and who seem bent on overturning many long ago decided basic rights. We feel that the fearless, trustful and empathetic woman who, in contrast to most of her wealthy family members, has joined the Democratic party is our best option. We urge a strong voter turnout to help Trudy Busch Valentine win the Democratic primary on August 2.

1st Congressional District

The race between first term incumbent U.S. Representative Cori Bush and state Senator Steve Roberts in Missouri’s 1st Congressional District provides a striking contrast between the two candidates. It will not come as a surprise to readers of this paper that we see Roberts’ bid as ill-advised, because he is facing strong political headwinds. We have given ample coverage of this primary contest over many weeks including this current issue. While we don’t agree with every position Cong. Busch takes, we wholeheartedly support her boldness of action and commitment to the well-being of all her constituents. She is a registered nurse, pastor and activist and is well prepared by education, experience and her consistent acts of compassion and concern. We strongly urge you to vote for Cori Bush, a dedicated leader of consequence

who gets results, in the Democratic primary on August 2 so she can continue working for us.

St. Louis County Executive

There should be no serious discussion about a truly improbably candidate in Tuesday’s Democratic primary for county executive whose shameful record includes: - working at the St. Louis aldermanic board to defeat efforts to enact and increase the minimum wage

-being a frequent opponent of calls for social justice from County Prosecutor Wesley Bell, Cong. Cori Bush and Mayor Tishaura Jones, Eastern Missouri’s most-influential Black elected officials

-operating as a political insider and lobbyist to shield police misconduct

-serving as a close senior advisor to former County Executive Steve Stenger who was found guilty of corruption and had to spend time in federal prison

Jane Dueker who filed at the last minute because no one in her political camp would, has been called “a proven rabble-rouser” by the PostDispatch. She has followed her usual pattern and sought to use her crafty, divisive ways to delude voters who know little about her as this is her first effort to be elected to public office. The Post is no friend of the incumbent county executive, Dr. Sam Page, 57, but even they found Dueker unfit and a poor choice and endorsed the incumbent.

Dueker under no circumstances should be allowed to come close to the County Executive’s office. She and her supporters need to be soundly defeated at the polls. A vote for a more seasoned Dr. Sam Page is a smart vote for a more appropriate person to help lead to a prosperous economic and inclusive future for all of St. Louis County. We support him for re-election to a full term.

St. Louis County Council – 1st District

The pivotal role of Black Democrats in St. Louis County should mean increased opportunities to address some basic needs and concerns of North St. Louis. We need to look to the new generation of political leaders who are forward looking and not locked into the past as they plan for the future. The objective should be to look to where we need to go and what we need to do to get there. We have been convinced that Terry Wilson has the ability, experience and discipline to join other serious leaders of his generation in shaping candidates that will create better life outcomes for more people. We urge a vote for the change the community needs. We endorse Terry Wilson

Commentary

Protect the freedom to marry

By Ben Jealous

We all know that what people do tells you more about them than what they say. That’s true for politicians, too.

We see politicians who call themselves “pro-life” and “prowoman” when they’re pushing to make abortion a crime but shrug their shoulders when those laws result in greater risk of women dying during pregnancy-related medical crises. Or who claim to be “pro-child” but try to force a 10-year-old rape victim to accept the physical and emotional trauma of bearing her rapist’s child. It’s the same when it comes to marriage. A lot of politicians who posture as defenders of marriage just voted against the Respect for Marriage Act, which passed the U.S. House of Representatives on July 19, and would ensure that equal treatment of same-sex couples under federal law if passed by the Senate.

The right to marry has not always been protected for everyone. My own parents had to deal with the fact that some states still made it illegal for my White father and Black mother to get married. A Virginia judge upheld that state’s anti-marriage law claiming that God “did not intend for the races to mix.” In 1967, the U.S. Supreme Court over-

turned laws against interracial couples getting married. Almost 50 years later, the Supreme Court rejected similar arguments that were used to defend laws making it illegal for same-sex couples to get married. When I was serving as president of the NAACP, I was proud to lead the organization’s support to the marriage equality movement. And I was thrilled when the Supreme Court ultimately rejected state laws that discriminated against loving same-sex couples. Mildred Loving, half of the couple that took the interracial ban all the way to the Supreme Court, was also on board. She was grateful for the freedom to marry the person she loved and for the family they built together. Most Americans agree. By far. Support for interracial marriage reached 94 percent last year, according to Gallup. And this year, support for samesex couples’ right to marriage hit 71 percent, according to Gallup. But about three-quar-

As I See It - A Forum for Community Issues

Prop S: Supports students, schools, safety

By Darlene Green and Greg FX Daly

Part of the heritage of St. Louis is living in view of some of the Midwest’s most beautiful buildings. Many of them in our community are schools. More than half of the 60 beautiful old buildings owned by the Saint Louis Public School District (SLPS) are over a century old and need work to retain their historical heritage and modernize them for the safety of 19,000 students.

This investment will be made possible by Proposition S – a no tax increase bond issue - on the August 2nd ballot asking voters for permission to borrow the money needed to make much-needed safety improvements.

It’s the right thing to do for children, the fiscally prudent step as a property owner, and the responsible thing as a good neighbor.

Proposition S will provide the funds that will give our students a safer, healthier and better environment in which to learn. It is, quite frankly, a way to reinvest in our students, our schools and our community at large.

ing our students and staff the ability to focus on learning and growing, not worry about safety. The Covid-19 era has taught us more about the value of ventilation. Our aging HVAC systems needed attention in many of our buildings simply for comfort. The pandemic reminded us all that air circulation and quality are of equal importance. Proposition S funds will be used to upgrade or replace obsolete systems.

Then there are the restrooms. Most children will tell you the improvements coming here are long overdue.

The safety component is reflective of how our world has changed. Exterior doors will be replaced, security systems improved. Both of these priorities will help ensure our buildings and our kids are secure by 21st century standards. Most of our buildings weren’t designed to handle such modern issues. Fire alarm systems will be installed, as well, giv-

The money will also allow for exterior upkeep like tuckpointing brick and roofing work. This will make these old gems, built to be the centerpieces of their neighborhoods, return to living up to that billing. SLPS last asked voters for a bond issue back in 2010. The community said yes, and we lived up that confidence, completing every project on time and under budget, and creating hundreds of jobs in the process.

It is time once again for the St. Louis schools to get the same repairs, upgrades and renovations any homeowner would do for his or her property.

Please say YES to Proposition S on Tuesday, August 2nd.

St. Louis Comptroller Darlene Green and Collector of Revenue Gregory FX Daly are cochairs of the Prop S campaign

Commentary

We need political leadership with the ability to establish a shared vision for the future

By Terry Wilson

Elections have consequences. We saw that with the County Executive election in 2015 and then again in the 2016 Presidential election. When you go into the voting booth August 2nd there are 3 questions you need to answer. Where are we as a community? Where do we go in the future? How do we get there? The answers to these questions should inform and guide how you vote on August 2nd.

ters of the Republicans in the U.S. House of Representatives just voted against protecting those couples under federal law.

Why do we need a federal law to protect people’s freedom to marry? Because anti-equality groups have never accepted the Court’s 2015 ruling that samesex couples have a constitutional right to marry under the 14th Amendment and that states cannot ban same-sex marriage. For years, Thomas was an often-lonely voice on the extreme right wing of the Court. But he has a lot more company out there now, especially with the three justices named by former President Donald Trump. They just overturned Roe v. Wade, stripping Americans of the right to make abortion-related decisions about their bodies and families.

It’s a good sign that the Respect for Marriage Act passed with the support of 47 Republicans joining the Democratic majority. It’s not such a good sign that threequarters of the Republicans voted no. You can bet those members of Congress describe themselves as lovers of freedom and defenders of families. But their actions are speaking a lot louder than their words.

Ben Jealous serves as president of People For the American Way

I’m a lifelong resident of North County, a husband and father of two sons. The success and future of our community matters to me at a deeply personal level. In addition, I bring over a decade of governing experience, having served as an elected member of the Jennings School Board, a member of the Jennings City Council and the Democratic Committeeman of The Norwood Township.

It’s true that some never

get over an election, but once a political campaign is over, Councilmembers, irrespective of party, should all have a common goal — to provide quality constituent services, safeguard the publics’ health and safety, and to drive economic development that ensures St. Louis County is a place our children will have the opportunity to thrive and prosper. I’m reminded of a quote from a great historian and author Dr. Carter G Woodson. He said, “No people can go forward when the majority of those who should know better have chosen to go backwards…”. The reality is our

community ends up suffering when we have constant political sparring matches to prove our individual strength. We need political leadership with the ability to establish a shared vision for the future, goals and plans to make that future possible. The whole of our community must become greater than the sum of its parts. We do this by finding the hidden connections between each of our passions for the community and begin working together for the maximum benefit of St. Louis County. We must remember and celebrate history, but we will not move forward by holding on to history. Progress can’t be made by standing still or taking backward steps. Let’s take the first step in progress and vote for the future of St. Louis County. I am prepared and ready to lead the 1st County Council District on Day 1. I am asking for your vote on August 2nd.

Columnist Ben Jealous

Voters are encouraged to check polling places and have acceptable forms of identification before heading to the polls on August 2, 2022. Absentee balloting will continue through August 1 in both St. Louis and St. Louis County.

City, County absentee voting continues through August 1

Ahead of the Tuesday, August 2 Primary Election, the St. Louis Board of Election Commissioners is reminding residents to make a plan before voting, which includes checking their polling location.

St. Louisans can check their polling location on the Board’s webpage, St. Louis Board of Election Commissioners (stlouis-mo.gov), and those without internet access can call the Board at (314) 622-4336 for more information. Before heading to vote, the Board urges St. Louis residents to:

Double-check their polling place. Due to Missouri redistricting, polling locations may have changed. Those without internet access can call the Election Board at 314-622-4336 for help with checking their polling location.

Bring an acceptable form of identification: This includes a Missouri state-issued ID, ID issued by a local election authority, a student ID, or a current utility bill, bank statement, paycheck, government check, voter card from the Board of Elections or other government document that contains the name and address of the voter. A recently passed voting law that requires photo

identification to cast a ballot, is not in affect for the August 2 primary elections. In-person absentee voting remains open at the St. Louis City Election Board, 300 N. Tucker Blvd, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, until August 1st and between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturday July 30.

St. Louis County has seven satellite sites for in-person absentee voting, and they are open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays until July 29. Extended hours will be available from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on July 30, and from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday, August 1. The sites are:

• North County Recreation Complex – 2577 Redman Road, St. Louis MO 63136

• Board of Elections – 725 Northwest Plaza Drive, St. Ann MO 63074

• UMSL Millennium Student Center – 17 Arnold Grobman Drive, Bellerive Acres MO 63121

• St. Louis County Library (Mid County Branch) –7821 Maryland Avenue, Clayton MO 63105

• St. Louis County Library (Daniel Branch) – 300 Clarkson Road, Ellisville MO 63011

• STLCC Meramec Student Center – 11333 Big Bend Road, Kirkwood MO 63122

• St. Johns UCC Mehlville – 11333 St. Johns Church Road, Green Park MO 63123

Use economic tools to take on gun violence

By Julianne Malveaux

There have been at least 214 mass shootings in the United States so far this year. We have been horrified by the Highland Park, Illinois July 4 shootings, the massacre of 21 people, 19 of them children, in Uvalde, Texas. A crazed, racist killed 10 Black people and wounded at least three others when he shot up a Tops grocery store in Buffalo.

In 2022, there have been more shootings than days; the shootings have become commonplace.

The Biden Administration and concerned legislators have done what they can to restrict gun ownership, given our nation’s gun culture and our combatively divided Senate. There is a new gun safety law, and some survivors of mass shootings joined him at the White House to celebrate the legislation.

The families of victims are tired of people offering thoughts and prayers. They want action! The Safer Communities Act, passed on a bipartisan basis last month, is a step in the right direction, but it doesn’t go far enough. We need to use economic tools or inject economics into the conversation about gun safety.

Those of us with stock portfolios must insist that our money managers avoid stocks like Smith and Wesson (SWBI), which produced more than 1.5 million guns in 2020. If more people who say they hate gun violence stopped investing in gun manufacturing companies, perhaps these companies would rethink their manufacturing, marketing, and lobbying.

Gun ownership has been cleverly marketed, with companies using buzzwords like safety, to encourage gun purchases.

Those who are survivors of gun violence, and their families should sue the gun manufacturers who produce the deadly weapons that make massacres possible. Earlier this year, Remington (RGM) agreed to pay the families of the 2012 Sandy Hook shooting, where 20 children and six educators were killed. It took a decade between the shootings and the lawsuit settlement, so the families must be commended for their persistence. The families of victims in Uvalde, Buffalo, and Highland Park should consider pursuing similar lawsuits to punish those companies that flood deadly weapons into the public.

We can also use our tax or surcharge system to restrict the distribution of ammunition. The comedian Chris Rock had it right when he said in 2009, “You don’t need no gun control, you know what you need? We need some bullet control. I think all bullets should cost five thousand dollars… five thousand dollars per bullet… You know why? Cause if a bullet cost five thousand dollars, there would be no more innocent bystanders. Every time somebody got shot, we’d say. . .He must have done something … he’s got fifty-thousand-dollars-worth of bullets in his behind. Even if you get shot by a stray bullet, you wouldn’t have to go to no doctor to get it taken out. Whoever shot you would take their bullet back, like, “I believe you got my property.”

Rock might have been joking, but I’m not. We use our tax system to encourage or discourage specific behavior or to cover the costs of such behavior. We use gas taxes to maintain roads. We impose cigarette and alcohol taxes to discourage consumption. Why not tax bullets (or mandate a surcharge) to discourage their use. If we want to slow or stop gun violence, economic tools might well be the answer.

Julianne Malveaux is an economist, author, and dean of the College of Ethnic Studies at Cal State University

St. Louis American staff

Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American Julianne Malveaux

Bush

Continued from A1

Roberts, chair of the Missouri Legislative Black Caucus represents about twothirds of St. Louis, has focused his campaign on the idea that Bush is too much of an activist and not enough of a legislator. Some of her votes have threatened federal funds and development opportunities, he said, and that’s why she must go.

“You’ve got someone who doesn’t have any interest in being an elected official, they’re more interested in…bringing attention to themselves,” Roberts said, “where your role as an elected leader — as steward of St. Louis City and St. Louis County — needs to be focused on bringing back federal resources home.”

Roberts points to $18 million he secured for his district this year, including $8 million for the city’s new 911 call center. All this despite having to contend with a Republican supermajority in Jefferson City.

“I’m willing to work with anyone who has the same interests and objectives as I do, which is making St. Louis a better place and a safer place for everyone to live,” he said.

Bush, Missouri’s first Black congresswoman, was unavailable for an interview for this story. But she told the canvassers in Fairground Park that she isn’t worried that she’s going to lose her bid for re-election. She just wants the results to send a message that her 2020 win over longtime Democratic Congressman Lacy Clay was no accident.

“That lightning didn’t strike, that it wasn’t just a fluke,” she said. “That people meant to send me to Congress because sending me to Congress sent us to Congress.”

On the surface, that’s the stage for the primary battle — a moderate challenger versus a liberal incumbent.

But the race has an undercurrent shrouded in

grief and resentment. While Democratic primaries can often cause divisions in St. Louis politics, this race has already shredded political relationships.

On March 11, former state lawmaker and St. Louis County official Cora Faith Walker died suddenly from a heart condition, shocking the local and statewide political community.

Her death came 17 days before Roberts announced his campaign for Congress. In 2016, Walker accused Roberts of sexual assault, though the police investigation did not result in any charges. Roberts has denied the allegation and later sued Walker for defamation. She filed a countersuit. Eventually, they signed a confidential settlement that didn’t involve any money.

In the days following Walker’s death, some people close to her – including the mayor – posted on social media that they believed Walker’s claims and vowed not to forget “what he did.”

About two weeks after formally entering the campaign, Roberts publicly released the confidential terms of the settlement with Walker, saying he did it because Bush’s supporters were resurfacing the allegations. After seeing a TV interview where Roberts denied the allegations, a second woman who had accused Roberts of sexual assault — St. Louis attorney Amy Harms — spoke up publicly.

In an interview with The Independent, Roberts insisted the allegations resurfacing was the fault of Bush’s campaign and had nothing to do with

Walker’s friends grieving her death.

“I can just speak through what I witnessed real time as far as how these allegations were coming up and who was posting about them,” he said. “It was very clear some of these folks had actually worked in her office or volunteered for her campaign. Who it was exactly, I couldn’t tell you.”

State Rep. Rasheen Aldridge, a St. Louis Democrat who has endorsed Bush, works closely with Roberts in Jefferson City and was also close with Walker. He said the sexual assault allegations were brought back up by the people who loved and supported Walker – and not because of Roberts’ then-rumored bid for Congress. It tore him and many others apart, he said, to see Roberts disclose the settlement

police brutality in the Black community.

Half of Missouri’s Black voters live in the 1st Congressional district. Last year, Roberts sponsored legislation to require the Missouri Attorney General Office to compile a use-offorce database and produce an annual report of how each law enforcement agency in the state fared. He also fought against a bill that included the “Law Enforcement Bill of Rights,” providing further protections for law enforcement under investigation for misconduct or excessive force.

Bush, a frontline Ferguson protestor and vice chair of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, commended President Joe Biden issuing an executive order in May that mandates a number of police accountability measures. It includes a new national database of police misconduct that all federal law enforcement agencies must participate in.

She introduced the People’s Response Act that urges a health-centered approach to public safety and alternative crisis-response programs.

so soon after her death and with her unable to defend herself.

“Now this is how we’re remembering her, with a person that’s running for Congress using this for campaign material,” Aldridge said. “I have been around politics a lot, but I think this is the lowest of lows I’ve seen. It is disgusting.”

Roberts said voters will see past the allegations, as they did when they elected him to the Senate two years ago and as Black legislators did when they made him chair of the Missouri Legislative Black Caucus.

State Rep. Marlon Anderson, D-St. Louis, said he’s supporting Roberts because his legal experience as a former prosecutor and his service as a captain in the Missouri Air National Guard speak to his ability to make “tough decisions in adverse situations.”

“He has shown that he can work across the aisle and do what is in the best interest of Missourians and all Americans,” Anderson said.

Roberts also won the endorsement of the man Bush unseated in 2020, former U.S. Rep. Lacy Clay, though he declined an interview request to speak about his support of Roberts.

But the fallout from the sexual assault allegations has persisted.

Pro-Choice Missouri, formerly known as NARAL Pro-Choice Missouri, endorsed Bush but chose to withhold endorsements from numerous Democratic state lawmakers who had appeared on a host committee list for a fundraiser for Roberts last year. The group pointed specifically at the allegations of sexual assault against Roberts, telling the St. Louis Post-Dispatch that it could not support candidates who don’t stand up against “the status quo in Jeff City that allows for and sustains a culture of abuse.” Roberts has repeatedly criticized Bush’s vote against the infrastructure bill approved by Congress earlier this year that allocated more than a trillion dollars in spending for roads, bridges, mass transit, electric vehicle charging stations, rural broadband and lead pipe removal.

Bush was among six Democrats who voted “no” because it lacked the originally included Build Back Better proposal for preschool and child care funds. Roberts contends Bush abandoned Democrats on an important vote.

“You need someone who shows up and is able to work with leadership on both sides of the aisle and find compromise,” Roberts said. “It can’t be this all or nothing approach.”

At the canvassing event, Bush anticipated that question could come when they spoke with voters.

“Our work has to start with those who have the greatest need,” she said. “If we start there, everybody benefits. When you do it the other way, you miss people.”

Every candidate that has secured a city-wide office in St. Louis in recent years has put public-safety policies at the top of their platforms, including structural racism and

“I have worked tirelessly to ensure that we are not investing in failed strategies that further militarize our neighborhoods and schools,” she said in a May press release, “and the need to prioritize comprehensive, public health-based gun violence prevention strategies that will keep every student safe.”

Roberts secured a historic $5 million for refugee resettlement for St. Louis, a passion for him that came out of working for a Los Angeles legal clinic for asylum seekers. He also said a priority for him if elected would be to codify Roe v. Wade to ensure abortion rights, though he doesn’t have any official plans yet.

On July 1, Bush laid out a 23-point action plan for “protecting reproductive freedom” and she launched a new reproductive justice hub on her campaign website designed to serve as a one-stop for abortion care resources and an activism hub for Missourians and people across the country to understand their rights after the Supreme Court’s recent ruling.

She also recently launched a TV ad about how she was raped and became pregnant at 17.

“That’s the start of my abortion story,” Bush says in the ad. “Millions more have their own.”

Both candidates have pushed to revitalize North St. Louis, which has faced decades of disinvestment and is plagued by hundreds of vacant houses.

Roberts sponsored an amendment to a larger bill that he says will enable “reinvestment in disenfranchised areas” by clearing titles for St. Louis’ vacant properties.

In September 2021, Bush worked alongside Sen. Elizabeth Warren to introduce the legislation “Keeping Renters Safe Act” to authorize the Department of Health and Human Services to place a moratorium on residential evictions during the pandemic. A month before, she camped out on the Capitol steps in protest of Congress not extending protections for vulnerable tenants. The Biden administration had said it could not legally extend that ban, and a last-minute legislative effort by congressional Democrats failed to extend those legal protections through mid-October. Many credit her protest with mounting the pressure necessary to get the Biden administration to act.

Roberts criticized Bush for protesting outside the U.S. Capitol instead of working alongside members of the Congressional Black Caucus inside the building.

“She made it appear that she was the reason why it happened,” Roberts said, “whereas really, you had Democrats working together on the inside to get this done.”

But Jones said Bush’s protest was a big reason the moratorium was extended.

“We know that was why President Biden extended the eviction moratorium,” Jones said. “I don’t care what anybody else says. Her activism saves lives, and that’s the kind of activism that we need in Congress.”

The Independent’s Rudi Keller contributed to this story.

Steve Roberts, a state senator who represents the City of St. Louis, is challenging incumbent Congresswoman Cori Bush in the Aug. 2 Democratic primary in the 1st Congressional District.

Photo courtesy of Steve Roberts

Gov. Mike Kehoe.

“Communities throughout our region were devastated by the record rainfall and flooding,” said Jones.

“My heart goes out to all those families who were impacted, and I remain in consistent communication with our partners at the county, state, and federal governments. This declaration of emergency will help us get the resources we need to begin our city’s recovery.”

As of Wednesday afternoon, a formal request to the BidenHarris administration had not yet been announced.

“Historic flooding left [much of] St. Louis underwater, and our people are in need of immediate assistance,” Bush said in a release.

Summit

Continued from A1

ows are coming to a close.”

“Just like how Big Tobacco needed to be held accountable for its role in promulgating a generation of lung cancer patients, so too does the gun industry need to be held accountable for its role in our gun violence epidemic,” said Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas.

“In Kansas City, we went after Jimenez Arms for its role in furthering gun violence, and I’m looking forward to strategizing with my fellow mayors about what’s next.”

Twelve cities published

Continued from A1

Democratic primary voters.”

“[This includes] supporting families, abortion rights, environmental issues, and public safety,” Page said.

Dueker told the podcast, in a separate interview, that she decided to take on the incumbent “I’m really concerned about the direction of the county. “I have the ability to effectuate change, [and show] leadership in a way that Same Page did not.”

Dueker added that people tell her “They are a little embarrassed by county government.”

Dueker, an attorney, was an unpaid but close political advi-

“Overnight, many of our St. Louis community members have been forced from their homes, cars, and neighborhoods. My office has received non-stop calls from people requiring emergency services or from people who are unable to stay in their homes.

We are actively working around the clock to ensure that community members have access to the resources and services that they need during this emergency, and we are grateful for our community’s first responders who are doing life-saving work in the aftermath of extreme weather.

But we need federal disaster resources and assistance right now.

Bush said she has been in communication with the White House, as well as Jones and county leaders.

“It is clear that we need additional help to meet people’s needs now, and I am confident

data today on the manufacturers of crime guns in their cities. The top manufacturer of recovered crime guns was Glock in 9 of the 12 reporting cities. On average, over 1.5x more Glocks were recovered than the second leading manufacturer in each of those 9 cities. Five gun manufacturers accounted for over half of the recovered crime guns: Glock (16.6%), Taurus (12.4%), Smith & Wesson (11.8%), Ruger (6.5%), and Polymer80 (3.8%). Collectively across this sample of 12 cities, these five manufacturers accounted for nearly 10,000 recovered crime guns in 2021. As of July 11, the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department’s Crime Lab

sor to the convicted Stenger. She is a longtime lobbyist and works on behalf of the St. Louis and St. Louis County respective police organizations.

Page said public safety and passage of the Prop P half-cent sales tax for public safety are of vital importance to the county’s future.

“The vast majority of money raised went to the police department, and most of that went to police salaries,” he said. He added that “more police officers are not the only solution to crime; it’s part of it.”

Page said the county and its police force will “work to implement” the ‘Safer Missouri Stronger Missouri’ initiative.

“It’s not just about funding for police. It’s about many things,” he said.

Its eight recommendations include increasing police

we can work across all levels of government to support a request from Governor Parson

has recovered 1,378 since the beginning of the year.

The mayors called on The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), after the swearing in of former U.S. Attorney Steve Dettelbach as the first Senate-confirmed director in nearly a decade, to take key steps towards fulfilling its vital oversight role.

Those measures include: 1. Giving cities the data and analysis needed to fully understand the flow of illegal guns and develop targeted interventions, with the clarification that cities are allowed to publicly release analyses of this data; 2. strongly implementing the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA) and aggressively enforcing the

staffing and resources. Mental health care and support for people on parole and probation to reduce recidivism are also part of the plan

Dueker said “the No. 1 issue is crime.”

“Having someone with a relationship with the entire [police] workforce is a plus.”

She called Prop P “a failure.”

“It’s not the money. There is no confidence. St. Louis County is going to 125 officers down. Blame lack of leadership and lack of a crime plan.”

Last summer’s raucous county council meetings were the product of “difficult decisions about public health and the partisan divide.”

“The meetings became the epicenter of anti-vaccine rhetoric. Our council was deeply divided at the time. It created a

to unlock federal help.”

St. Louis and St. County, with support from the Red

new ghost gun rule; 3. cracking down on rogue gun dealers by requiring high-risk dealers to implement anti-trafficking standards; issuing a new Demand Letter to those high-risk dealers requiring them to share more information with ATF, and dramatically increasing gun dealer inspections to shut down the gun dealers who are violating the law; and 4. Investigating the secondary commercial marketplaces that are the source of guns for gun traffickers, including online marketplaces and gun shows, and implementing a new regulation (a provision in BSCA) to clearly define the unlicensed sellers who are unlawfully selling firearms without a background check.

welcoming environment.

County Chair Rita Days and Councilwoman Shalonda Webb, both Democrats, sided with Republicans as the county considered mask recommendations.

“They didn’t understand the importance of these public

Cross, have set up a regional evacuation shelter at the Richmond Heights Community Center, 8001 Dale, Richmond Heights, MO 63117. Residents can call 1-800-RED-CROSS for more information.

In addition, the Regional Business Council is making a $100,000 donation to the United Way to be allocated to the St. Louis Area Food Bank and the American Red Cross for flood relief support following yesterday’s devastating flash flooding in the St. Louis Metro area. Each organization will receive $50,000.

“Our hearts go out to the victims of the recent flood, and we want to help by making a gift to the United Way to help those most in need,” said Kathy Osborn, president and CEO of the Regional Business Council.

“In St. Louis we care for each other.”

Residents were forced to flee their homes after the record

In 2006, then-New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg and then-Boston Mayor Thomas Menino founded Mayors Against Illegal Guns as an original coalition of 15 mayors. The coalition has since grown to a bipartisan group of more than 1,000 current and former mayors from the smallest towns to the biggest cities in nearly every state.

Several of the mayors, including the mayors of New York Columbia Kansas City, and Baltimore, have already taken significant steps towards holding particular members of the gun industry accountable through litigation for their contributions to the

orders. When they heard from their districts, they changed their positions.”

Dueker said she was not against masks or vaccines but added the situation should have been managed better.

“He used an ax when he could have used a scalpel. He

rainfall, up to 10 inches in some areas, deluged roads, submerged vehicles, and flooded neighborhoods. Interstates and other roadways were closed, and Metro Link trains delayed because of the floodwaters.

Many residents were forced to seek shelter in neighboring community centers and schools.

The American Red Cross of Greater St. Louis and the St. Louis Area Food Bank are providing food, water, blankets, and other essential necessities to those affected by the flooding.

U-Haul locations in the greater St. Louis area are offering 30 days of free self-storage and U-Box container usage to residents who have been impacted by severe flooding. People seeking more information about the U-Haul disaster relief program or needing to arrange free self-storage should contact the participating facility nearest them.

nation’s gun violence epidemic.

“Moms Demand Action is proud to stand with Mayor Jones and Mayor Lucas in their work to demand gun industry accountability,” said Kim Westerman, a volunteer with the Missouri chapter of Moms Demand Action. “For far too long, the gun industry has avoided public scrutiny for its role in our gun violence epidemic. Ending that is crucial to changing their practices and ending gun violence in the state of Missouri.”

The link from today’s live streamed news conference can be found here. Mayor Jones’ appearance on Good Morning America can be found here

politicized the pandemic. State

is heavily favored to win the

county executive. The Democratic primary winner would face him on Nov. 8, 2022.

House member Shamed Dogan

Republican nomination for

Photo by Bill Greenblatt / St. Louis American Police check flooded automobiles for drivers, following historic rains causing heavy flooding in St. Louis on Tuesday, July 26. One fatality was reported after a driver was found in his car in 9 feet of water.

Roberts’ close Republican ties, problematic public fights raise questions

Next Tuesday is August primary election day in Missouri. While there are a number of critical contests taking place across the St. Louis region, one of the most significant ones for our City is the race between U.S. Rep. Cori Bush, a Democrat, -who currently serves as Congresswoman for the MO-01 District, and her challenger, state Sen. Steve “Silver Spoon” Roberts, Jr. We are reluctant to add “Democrat” behind Roberts’ name at this time, because of recent discoveries in both his state and federal campaign disclosures that seem to suggest that Roberts may, in fact, be a de facto Republican. During the last legislative session, Roberts voted to defund Planned Parenthood and used his power as a state senator to draw a new congressional map that would be favorable to him, not based on the voters’ needs. Coupling his voting record with his ultrawealthy privileged upbringing, no one should be surprised to learn that Roberts now relies so heavily on right-wing support for his bid for Congress. Last week, a KSDK investigative reporter confronted Roberts about his connection to the “YACHAD PAC,” the Republican operative-led political action committee that has funneled tens of thousands of dollars from shell (read: sham) corporations registered to Roberts’ family members. Although the YACHAD PAC is not permitted to coordinate with Roberts’ candidate committee, the primary donor for the PAC is Roberts’ own roommate: his father and former alderman Steve Roberts, Sr. The YACHAD PAC, our readers will recall, was launched shortly after the younger Roberts spoke at the Israeli American Council (IAC) in Florida in December 2021. The PAC’s address in FEC filings allegedly is located at 1324

Clarkson Clayton Center, Suite #223, which is the same address as a West County Dierbergs. Does he see an election opportunity against a first term incumbent in a year when he does not have to jeopardize his state Senate seat if he loses?

Perhaps an opportunity to avenge former congressman Lacy Clay’s ouster from Congress and a shot at accessing “dark money”campaign contributions that cannot be traced to an individual donor. The YACHAD PAC, as it turns out, has been a channel of funding from Clay himself, Clay’s sister Michelle Clay, Clay’s former communications director Steve Englehardt, and longtime Republican operative Paul Zemitzsch of Clayton. Zemitzsch’s professional background includes advising every Republican in the Missouri Senate between 1992 and 2008, in addition to Republican St. Louis County Council members. He has a well-documented track record spanning decades of supporting Republicans - although occasionally, a conservative masquerading as a Democrat has caught his attention. Zemitzsch is believed to be the founder of the “YACHAD PAC,” although registration paperwork shows a “Steve Zemitzsh.” No such person appears to exist and Paul Zemitzsch - who is very much a real person - said he didn’t know who “Steve Zemitzsh” is.

But his heavy reliance upon Republican operatives should not be the only red flag for voters going into Tuesday’s election. Roberts’ own FEC reports

frauded tax credits.

reveal very little local support outside of his wealthy family members’ individual contributions, most of which met the maximum contribution limits.

Roberts’ most enthusiastic local supporter?

Embattled developer Paul McKee, president of McEagle Properties (recently rebranded as “M Property Services”)?

To remind our readers, McKee is the wealthy St. Charles developer who surreptitiously acquired 1,500 acres of North City land, including primarily LRA (city-owned) properties. This massive acquisition forced long-time residents to vacate family homes and the bulldozing of hundreds of historic houses in Black neighborhoods. While he sat on the undeveloped, vacant properties, McKee claimed more than $40 million in tax credits through the now-defunct “NorthSide Regeneration project.” After McKee failed to develop the massive tract as promised, the city threatened legal action and he attempted to sell off parcels to other developers as well as back to the City at inflated prices. McKee’s failed scam to generate more state tax credits landed him in significant legal trouble with city, state, and federal governments, including an FBI investigation into tax fraud and a lawsuit filed by the Missouri Attorney General to recuperate the allegedly de-

One of the few projects that McKee was able to salvage was the construction of a three-bed private medical clinic, a facility that McKee wants to call the “Homer G. Phillips Memorial Hospital.” Although McKee received $8 million in public funding, revenue generated by the facility in providing health services will go into McKee’s bank account: his financial gain while usurping the name of a legendary Black hospital.

But while almost every other elected official in the city promptly condemned McKee’s racist attempts to expropriate the legacy of the original Homer G. Phillips Hospital, including a scathing resolution opposing the move by the Board of Aldermen, Roberts remained noticeably silent on the public outrage about the exploitation of the historic Black landmark’s legacy committed by one of his biggest benefactors. Perhaps the most cringe-worthy part of Roberts’ silence on McKee’s exploitation of Homer G. Phillips is the fact that Roberts’ own maternal grandfather was trained as a surgeon at the original, highly-revered hospital. Roberts’ silence was seen as implicit approval of McKee’s plans to exploit the Homer G. Phillips Hospitals name.

Not only did Roberts look the other way as McKee and

his surrogates, including former long-time Clay staffer and McKee lawyer Darryl Piggee, defended his disrespect, but he continued to take campaign contributions from McKee while doing so.

McKee himself has given Roberts thousands in support of his state and federal campaigns through McKee’s many undisclosed PACs. McKee was even spotted by protesters as he walked into one of “Silver Spoon Steve’s” 1st Congressional campaign fundraisers at a mansion on a Central West End private street.

Perhaps the most insidious part of Roberts’ run for MO01 has been his direct use of South City Democrats’ political playbook of misdirection and racism. We refer to several incidents throughout Roberts’ chaotic campaign, including inexplicable public attacks against his former romantic partner, Palestinian activist Neveen Ayesh. What the younger Roberts fails to recognize is how his behavior, through the entirety of his disastrous congressional run, has revealed his inability to compete at this political level.

Aside from credible sexual assault allegations and messy break-ups, what specific policy positions does Steve Roberts support? Where does he stand on issues important to 1st Congressional District voters?

Even if Roberts had a substantive platform, his policies have been drowned out by his campaign’s participation in typical dirty politics. Our City has a lengthy and sinister history of white party bosses recruiting candidates to run against well-supported Black candidates with the specific

intent to undermine Black political power.

Since Black residents have been able to vote and hold more substantial political office, St. Louis’ white party bosses have stood in the way, to curb Black leaders and to limit Black power. These “ploys” didn’t stop in the 70s, 80s, or 90s; we need look no further than former mayor Vince Schoemehl recruiting Alderwoman Cara Spencer to run against thenTreasurer Tishaura O. Jones for the vacant mayor seat left open by Lyda Krewson Despite Jones’ early announcement to run for mayor and Spencer’s own indications that she was still unsure about a citywide race, Schoemehl and the remnants of his political followers convinced Spencer to run - ultimately at Spencer’s expense. On August 2, we hope that voters will consider the public conduct of “Silver Spoon Steve” during this congressional campaign: from receiving campaign dollars from a dark money PAC founded with possibly fake names to his abhorrent attempts to besmirch the legacy of the late Hon. Cora Faith Walker and reportedly trying to scrub his Wikipedia

Cori Bush

Steve Roberts, Jr.

Paul McKee

Study: Missouri led nation in per capita murders, most victims Black

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire

With a homicide rate of 50.64 per 100,000 residents in 2019, Missouri ranked the highest in the nation, according to a recently released study. Per capita, most victims in Missouri and the U.S. were Black.

Following the Show Me State in the top 10 were Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Tennessee, Louisiana, Kentucky, Arkansas, Michigan, and Oklahoma.

The Washington, D.C.-based Violence Policy Center study, revealed that in 2019, the United States recorded 7,441 Black homicide victims. African Americans represent 14% of the U.S. population, but accounted for 52% of all homicide victims, the study authors found. The study details homicide rates for 2019, the most recent year for which comprehensive national data is available. For homicides in which authorities could identify the weapon used, 88% of Black victims (6,190 out of 7,056) were shot and killed with guns.

Of those, 64% (3,935 victims) were killed with handguns.

On average, more than 20 Black Americans died each day from homicide – 17 were known to have died from gunshots.

“These deaths almost always involve a gun, and the resulting devastation ravages families, friends, and community members,” Violence Policy Center Executive Director Josh Sugarmann said in a news release.

“The goal of our research is to help support advocates and organizations working on the ground to stop this lethal violence while, at the same time, continuing to educate and engage the public and policymakers on the need to address this ongoing national crisis.

The study also revealed that the Black homicide victimization rate in the United States was nearly four times the overall national victimization rate and nearly seven times the white homicide victimization rate. In 2019, the Black homicide victimization rate was 18.08 per 100,000.

In comparison, the overall national homicide victimization rate was 4.79 per 100,000. For whites, the national homicide victimization rate was 2.69 per 100,000. Further, 87 percent of Black

homicide victims were male (6,454 of 7,441) and 13 percent were female (986 of 7,441).

The authors noted that Black male homicide victimization rate in the United States was “more than four times the overall male victimization rate and more than eight times the white male homicide victimization rate.”

In 2019, the homicide victimization rate for Black male victims was 32.49 per 100,000. In comparison, the overall rate for male homicide victims was 7.68 per 100,000 and the rate for white male homicide victims was 3.88 per 100,000. Meanwhile, the Black female homicide victimization rate in the United States was more than twice the overall female victimization rate and three times the white female homicide victimization rate.

In 2019, the homicide victimization rate for Black female victims was 4.60 per 100,000.

In comparison, the overall rate for female homicide victims was 1.95 per 100,000 and the rate for white female homicide victims was 1.52 per 100,000. For homicides in which the victim to offender relationship could be identified, 77% of Black victims (2,282 out of 2,954) were killed by someone they knew.

The number of victims killed by strangers was 672.

“At the same time, the firearms industry, looking to expand beyond its shrinking

base of white male gun owners, has launched an organized marketing campaign focusing on Black and Latino Americans,” the study authors wrote.

“If successful, such efforts

can only increase gun death and injury in these communities.” The full study is available at http://vpc.org/studies/blackhomicide22.pdf.

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Capitol’s history a testament to Black ingenuity, achievement

By Julius Hunter

Every time I view that scrawny, rag-tag bunch of rioting marauders attempting to destroy the Capitol Building on January 6, 2021, the historylover in me gets a bit of anxiety about an unrelated story to the insurrection.

Did you know that African Americans – enslaved and formerly enslaved people -were a major labor force in the construction of the Capitol?

George Washington and the founding fathers had planned to hire cheap labor from Europe to construct the majestic D.C. government buildings on the drawing boards.

But the call overseas for laborers got a basic yawn.

So, the nation’s first government leaders turned to free labor right under their noses: enslaved African workers. And then there was that cheapest force for back-breaking work: African American freedmen.

The first major part of the monumental job was of Capitol building was clearing the land that was called Jenkins Hill of trees, rocks, and debris. The seat of government was to be built on land in the slave states of Virginia and Maryland. And in fact, enslaved men were hauled off by the wagonload to the government stone quarry in Aquia, Virginia for training as stonemasons.

One of the enslaved men was a standout. When it came time to raise the 19-foot-tall bronze statue to the top of the

Capitol building, it was a Black man, Philip Reid, that became the hero of this complicated construction feat.

Previously untrained in construction and engineering, it was Reid who figured out how to use a contraption of hoists and pulleys to get the largerthan-life-size bronze statue in its lofty place. Wonder how this enslaved Black man must have felt about the Capitol Building’s crowning glory be-

n In 2012, a plaque was installed in the East Wing of the Capitol Building to commemorate the African American tradesmen and stonemasons -- enslaved and free -- that gave us such a beautifully spectacular seat of government.

ing called the Statue of Freedom?

The Emancipation Proclamation made Reid a free man by the time the Capitol building was completed. But imagine his reflections on the job from start to finish.

In 2012, a plaque was installed in the East Wing of the Capitol Building to commemorate the African American tradesmen and stonemasons -- enslaved and free -- that gave

us such a beautifully spectacular seat of government. How disgusting -- even sacrilegious -- it was that the January 6th mob of vandals so maliciously smashed windows and trashed the furnishings they didn’t steal outright. And then in the ultimate acts of disrespect, many of them are guilty of lowlife acts you won’t hear much about it on the news. The critters emptied bladders and bowels to gleefully desecrate the hallowed halls of the Capitol. The Capitol cleaning crew had to be quickly assembled in this historically unprecedented emergency. It would not surprise you that today’s Capitol custodial/ janitorial crew is made up primarily of African Americans.

Imagine what the ghosts of Philip Reid and the African American workforce constructing the Capitol Building would think of the disgustingly unsanitary, putrid, and monumental mess left by the January 6th insurrectionists.

Perhaps, Reid and crew would not be surprised at all that the malevolent mob of miscreants that answered Trump’s call would hold today’s African American population in as much contempt as the Secessionist slaveholders did 200 years ago.

Julius Hunter has contributed to broadcast and print journalism, civic involvement and education since he became St. Louis’ first African American TV anchor in 1970.

Photo

The Capitol Building

Woke voters know fluff from substance

When Congresswoman Cori Bush was recently arrested following an abortion rights protest at the U.S. Supreme Court Building conservative critics called her out.

“Stop being a protestor and concentrate on being a legislator,” was the right-wing story line. First, the two aren’t mutually exclusive.

Two, woke voters want to see their elected officials join them in protests. We need to see passion on an issue of such a dire nature as reproductive rights.

Woke voters are sophisticated enough to know simple “sloganeering” is different from a strategy that produces progressive change.

I’m an honor graduate of the University of Direct Action and Protests. I have accumulated hundreds of hours in continuing education. Don’t expect condemnation of protests and civil disobedience from me.

I’m adamant that direct action must be tied to strategy. If not, you’re just getting people together to vent. That’s an irresponsible waste of time and energy.

After Bush won a decisive victory over Lacy Clay, she vowed to bring the “whole activist community” with her into office. In the spirit of President Obama, she represents every constituent in her district - not just those who voted for her.

Columnist Jamala Rogers

In her first term of office, Bush has sponsored and/or helped pass nearly 30 pieces of legislation that benefit the 1st Congressional District including the city of St. Louis. Included is the child tax credit, which immediately lifted 40% of children out of poverty. Bush was key in passage of the Protecting our Kids Act, which strengthened gun laws to help keep children and youth safe.

The elections of St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones and Bush were a rejection of politics as usual and came after waves of activism.

Bush made sure the St. Louis region got its fair share of federal dollars for coronavirus relief. The almost half a billion dollars was the most for any city or county in Missouri. Mayor Jones is making sure that St. Louis residents have input on how those funds are spent. That’s called cooperation to benefit the people.

If there’s criticism to be leveled against protests, how about directing that outrage to those involved in the January 6 insurrection. It was an illegal act of violence that represented an assault on a fragile U.S. democracy. All involved should be exposed and punished to the full extent of the law. This was not the work of concerned citizens. This was a riot sparked by a small, violent white minority.

Bush has a vision, has many goals and an abundance of energy. These are the ingredients of an effective public servant. Being a self-described “politivist” attracts a gallery of online and social media trolls and critics. Death threats are common for simply advocating for her constituents.

Voters who know the value of direct action will continue to encourage her to hit the streets when she feels it is warranted. We’ll also help her combine activism and craft informed and humane legislation that improves lives.

That’s what democracy looks like.

“Taking Care of You”

Affinia helping families prepare for school year

Series of health events planned

Children can receive dental screenings, school physicals, and immunizations during Affinia Healthcare’s Medical and Dental Community Day for Children from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, July 30 at its 1717 Biddle location near downtown.

St. Louis American staff

Affinia Healthcare is hosting a series of events for youth and their parents as the 2022-23 school year approaches.

Affinia will hold its Medical and Dental Community Day for Children from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, July 30 at its 1717 Biddle location near downtown. Children can receive dental screenings, school physicals, and immunizations.

Community resources will be available as well as assistance to complete Medicaid applications. Families can also receive children’s gift packets, essential care bags, and more.

Affinia Healthcare will also hold a pair of back-to-school events in August.

n “Affinia Healthcare is proud to be a part of the community and offer these vital services for families and youth.”

– Dr. Alan Freeman, Affinia Healthcare president and CEO

The first Back to School Fair and Vaccination Event will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, August 6 at the Affinia Healthcare location at 3930 S. Broadway. There are two events on Saturday, August 13. Both are scheduled from 10 a.m. to 2

p.m., with one at 4414 N. Florissant and the other at the 1717 Biddle location.

“Affinia Healthcare is proud to be a part of the community and offer these vital services for families and youth,” said Dr. Alan Freeman, Affinia Healthcare president and CEO.

“Good health is critical to doing well in school and we want to make sure that our community has the health and wellness resources necessary to show up on the first day ready to learn and succeed.”

The back-to-school events will feature free school supplies, community resources, and Affinia Healthcare mascot, Dottie the Dalmatian. Marvelous the Clown and a live

Great need for nurses

Goldfarb School of Nursing offering full-ride scholarships

By Alvin A. Reid

The St. Louis American

BJC HealthCare is offering full-ride scholarships to incoming nursing students at Goldfarb School of Nursing. The scholarship offers come at a time that nurses are in high demand, and many regions face critical shortages. According to NurseJournal, “nearly every major hospital is hiring for one of healthcare’s most important roles.”

In 2019, nursing ranked as the third-most in-demand job of any profession in the United States, “and this trend shows no signs of slowing down.”

According to the 2020 U.S. Census, African Americans represent only 7.8% of the nursing workforce, although 13.4% of the U.S. population identify as Black. The nursing community has recognized the connection between diverse representation in nurs-

ing and reducing healthcare inequities. There is a focus on the importance of training and recruiting nurses from underrepresented groups, including African Americans.

The “full ride” scholarship is available to undergraduate students applying for the fall 2022 semester at Goldfarb School of Nursing at Barnes-Jewish College.

Recipients will be offered job opportunities at one of BJC HealthCare’s 14 hospitals after graduation, in return for a commitment to working three years in a direct patient care role.

The National Student Nurses’ Association reports more than 70% of nursing students use student loans to help pay for their education. The new scholarship is designed to reduce the financial burden on nursing students while helping to address the nursing shortages across health care.

See NURSES, A15

By Tammy Boyd

I managed healthcare policy for the late Congressman John Lewis, and today work for the Black Women’s Health Imperative. If you work in healthcare policy today, you know that health equity – or ensuring that disadvantaged populations get customized approaches to care and better medical outcomes – is a top priority. Health equity is an issue that should also resonate with lawmakers on Capitol Hill seeking to rein in healthcare expenditures.

According to a recent study, if inequities remain unaddressed, healthcare spending for the average American could rise from $1,000 annually today to $3,000 by 2040, with historically underserved communities disproportionately affected.

I applaud the Biden administration for its leadership on equity issues. A January 20, 2021, Executive Order on Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities Through the Federal Government, stated that “Entrenched disparities in our laws and public policies, and in our private and public institutions, have often denied that equal opportunity to individuals and communities.”

n If inequities remain unaddressed, healthcare spending for the average American could rise from $1,000 annually today to $3,000 by 2040.

One example of the Administration’s response to this Executive Order, is that in March of this year, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) announced it was “Creating New Research on Health Disparities, Minority Health, and Health Equity.” Included were actions to better track federal government funding for health equity issues, identifying gaps in scientific funding for these critical matters, recognizing roadblocks for health equity funding, and looking across NIH to find collaborative opportunities to drive scientific advances on these problems.

The healthcare industry also has a role to play to confront health equity challenges. Drug companies, insurers, hospitals, doctors, and others must also dedicate resources to implementing innovative methods to tackle health

With the nation facing a shortage of nurses, BJC Healthcare is addressing the situation by offering full-ride scholarships to incoming Goldfarb School of Nursing students. There is also a need for more Black nurses, with just 7.8% of the nursing workforce being African American.

Photo courtesy of Affinia Healthcare

Photo courtesy of NurseJournal

Tammy Boyd

“Taking Care of You”

Affinia Healthcare will hold is first Back to School Fair and Vaccination Event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, August 6 at its 3930 S. Broadway location. There are two events from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, August 13. with one at 4414 N. Florissant and the other at the 1717 Biddle location.

Nurses

Continued from A14

“This timely scholarship supports a diverse, prepared, proactive nursing workforce ready to address health and health care inequities,” said Dr. Angela Clark, Maxine Clark and Bob Fox president of Goldfarb.

“Expenses such as housing, books and other living expenses are not covered. There remains a critical need to support scholarship funding in partnership with The Foundation for Barnes-Jewish Hospital – this is vital to our students’ success.” Goldfarb School of Nursing is located on the Washington University Medical Campus in St. Louis, which includes Barnes-Jewish Hospital and St. Louis Children’s Hospital. Goldfarb has a second campus at Missouri Baptist Medical Center in west St. Louis County. BJC’s 14 hospitals are located around greater St. Louis, southern Illinois, and southeast Missouri.

“For any Goldfarb School of Nursing scholarship recipient exploring a future in this dynamic profession, we hope

Attendees must wear masks at all events. All events are open to the public. For more information, please call Affinia Healthcare at 314-810-8737.

Child Development Center Established in 1996, Affinia Healthcare’s Child Developmental Center [CDC]

DJ will provide entertainment. COVID-19 vaccinations will also be administered by appointment only. Families must also schedule appointments for the immunizations, physicals, and other vaccines. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 314-8148700.

this opportunity makes it easier to pursue their professional dreams,” says Denise Murphy, RN, BSN, MPH, and chief nurse executive at BJC HealthCare.

According to a March 2022 report by the Bureau of Health Workforce, there are 15.14 nurses per every 1,000 Missouri residents, which places the state ninth in the nation. Illinois ranks 27th with 12.42 nurses for every 1,000 residents. South Carolina has the worst ration in the nation, with just 7.89 nurses per 1,000 residents, and the national average is 12.06.

In August 2021, Goldfarb and Harris-Stowe State University announced that four spots in the Goldfarb nursing would be reserved for HarrisStowe students. The students also will receive scholarship assistance.

These allocated spaces mean the students can begin their nursing education during their desired term, rather than being added to a wait list.

Students accepted into the nursing program will be charged the same tuition rate as they pay at Harris-Stowe. In addition, students who earn one of the four reserved spots

offers parents help if they have a concern about their child’s emotional, behavioral, or intellectual development.

The CDC team includes psychologists, psychiatrists, clinical social workers, and a speech therapist. The CDC staff works with a child’s primary care physician and school personnel to provide a team-based approach. Treatments provided at the CDC include individual and family therapy, medication management, and speech therapy. The CDC serves children from 2 to 18 years of age, and parents or a legal guardian are welcome to walk-in at either our 1717 Biddle or 2220 Lemp location and request an intake packet.

Once the intake paperwork

is completed, a child will be scheduled to see a member of the CDC team for further evaluation during which concerns will be discussed and treatment recommendations will be made.

The CDC provides the following services: Neurological examinations; Psychological evaluations; Psychiatric care;

Psychosocial assessments; Individual and family counseling; Resource development and Pharmacologic treatment. The initial assessment process usually occurs within 48 hours of referral, and the CDC collaborates with St. Louis Children’s Hospital, Washington University School of Medicine, and a child’s pediatrician.

will be eligible for Goldfarbsponsored scholarships to assist with tuition costs.

“We are excited to partner with Goldfarb School of Nursing to provide HarrisStowe students an affordable opportunity to pursue a bachelor’s and professional degree

equity and close the health gap between rich and poor.

For example, the New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) recently published findings from a study conducted by the private insurer Humana regarding a new tool that can help identify who is, and who is not, get-

ting comprehensive, equitable health care. The tool identified individual health behaviors (like visits to a primary care physician, vaccinations, cancer screenings, and medication adherence), created a health equity score based on the number of behaviors patients were engaged in, and compared those scores across racial and ethnic subgroups. Given the amount of data we have on patient outcomes, new tools like this one will help

address disparities in care and improve the medical treatment for people who often slip through the cracks. In looking at the data, I was reminded that health disparities in Medicare are often driven by economic status, as dual-eligible (i.e., those eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid) were often found to engage in fewer of the individual health behaviors. Yet, those beneficiaries on Medicare Advantage plans

simultaneously,” LaTonia Collins Smith, Harris-Stowe president, said. Collins Smith said the agreement “not only provides students a defined pathway to a career in nursing but also builds upon Harris-Stowe’s strength in the biological sciences.”

– private Medicare plans that offer comprehensive, integrated services – scored overall better than those with traditional Medicare plans. This may speak to the health equity advantages of a managed care approach to health care. Groups like mine, which advocate on behalf of Black patients, partner with other organizations that focus on poverty issues to find ways to achieve wellness for our lower income communities

Nursing courses taken at Goldfarb are also eligible for a reverse transfer to HarrisStowe. This will enable students to earn a STEM [Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics] degree from Harris-Stowe in addition to a BSN (Bachelor of Science in

with fragmented access to care. Expanding the coalition of stakeholders, and the tools we have, will help us fight to improve health equity and make progress. Ultimately, getting better healthcare to disadvantaged populations and communities of color means, from a humanitarian standpoint, that people are healthier. From a policy perspective, preventive care reduces the burden on taxpayers by diminishing the need for

In August 2021, the Goldfarb School of Nursing and HarrisStowe State University announced that four spots in Goldfarb would be reserved for Harris-Stowe students. Students representing both universities joined Nancy Ridenour, the former Maxine Clark and Bob Fox president at Goldfarb, and LaTonia Collins Smith, HarrisStowe president, during the introductory press conference.

nursing) from Goldfarb.

To learn more about our exciting, new full-ride scholarship and eligibility requirements, please click on the following link: https://www. barnesjewishcollege.edu/ Financial-Aid/Scholarship

long term and costly medical treatments. I look forward to tracking the progress of this new tool and seeing if it can help increase health equity in the U.S. Tammy Boyd, JD MPH served as the chief policy officer and counsel of the Black Women’s Health Imperative and was a senior advisor for the late Congressman John Lewis.

Photo courtesy of Goldfarb School of Nursing

Photo courtesy of Affinia Healthcare

All in the family

Robinson Farms NxtGen is state’s largest Black-owned resort

With a giant scissor in hand, Drucella Robinson-Perkins was joined by family, friends and members of the Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce for the ribbon cutting celebration of Robinson Farms NxtGen. Robinson-Perkins is co-owner of the resort, which is part of a tranquil 95-acre tract.

By Ashley Winters

The St. Louis American

Robinson Farms NxtGen is making history, it is the largest Black-owned resort in the state of Missouri. The family-owned and operated 95-acre resort in Cape Girardeau has a unique take on vacationing marrying 19th-century style and modern mid-century style, the resort is the perfect getaway in the Midwest.

“There is so much to do on this property, there are 12 siblings including myself, nine boys and three girls and this is the opportunity to bring in all of our talents,” said co-owner Drucella Robinson-Perkins

Robinson-Perkins’s father was a farmer in southern Missouri in Sikeston and her mother was a stay at home mom, she says owning this estate gives her and her siblings a chance to go

n “There is so much to do on this property, there are 12 siblings including myself, 9 boys and three girls and this is the opportunity to bring in all of our talents.”

– Co-owner Drucella Robinson-Perkins

a step further than her parents to add their flavor to acquiring land and building for the generation behind them.

“Land producing something or providing the ability for you to do something, that’s where you begin your wealth,” said Robinson-Perkins.

She adds her children, nieces, and nephews

are looking towards them to be the leaders, and provide guidance. We are the next generation after my parents.

After the death of her parents, RobinsonPerkins started to reflect on what she wanted her legacy to be, and the type of mark she would leave behind.

“You start to think about the impact on those coming after you,” said Robinson-Perkins.

She says her parent’s values prepared her for this role in the hospitality industry, her father taught and demonstrated the importance of ownership and being an entrepreneur.

“ I was groomed for this,” she said.

Robinson-Perkins comes from a faith-loving, church-going family whose roots are deeply planted in the Black church, and she says this resort is

See RESORT, B2

Congressional Dems act against banks charging exploitive fees

By Charlene Crowell

PeoPle on the Move

Higgins promoted to DEI director

Dawn Higgins has been promoted to director Diversity, Equity & Inclusion for Nestlé Purina PetCare Company. She has over 25 years of HR experience and a few years ago made a career transition to utilize her skills to assist Nestlé Purina in their continued efforts to foster an environment of inclusion and belonging. Since transitioning to DEI, Higgins has been instrumental in promoting a culture of transparency by creating opportunities for our associates to learn more about each other’s lived experiences.

Satterfield named director at Forsyth

Evetty Satterfield returned to St. Louis in the new role of director of community, culture, and strategy at Forsyth School. Satterfield is an accomplished and dedicated education and DEI&B professional with more than ten years of expertise in coaching, mentorship, curriculum development, and consulting. Formerly based in Knoxville, Tennessee, Satterfield served as vice chair of the Knox County School Board in addition to her role as the founder and CEO of Advancing Lives, LLC. Her education includes Alabama A & M University (Normal, AL), and Washington University in St Louis.

Montgomery is new DEI ambassador

Together Credit Union announced Nikia Montgomery as its first Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion ambassador. Using advocacy, education, and innovative solutions, Montgomery will evolve the organization’s practices and processes to ensure that DEI is seamlessly woven into every aspect of operations at the credit union. Before joining the credit union, Montgomery served as the VP, territory manager at Capital One. She is also a member of the following groups to educate and advocate for change related to diversity and

Williams new director of admissions

U.S. Sen. Cory Booker, center, speaks at a press conference outside the U.S. Capitol on July 12, 2022, on his bill to curb bank overdraft fees. Joining him are U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Massachusetts, left, and House Committee on Oversight and Reform Chair Carolyn Maloney, D-New York, right.

Lincoln University of Missouri has selected Dr. Danisha Williams as director of admissions. Most recently, Williams has served as the director of admission and recruitment at Mississippi Valley State University in Itta Bena, Mississippi, where she implemented an aggressive and strategic recruitment plan that emphasized superior customer service, constant communication, and high visibility. She began her career in higher education in 2010 at Fisk University in Nashville, Tennessee.

Photo courtesy of Cape Girardeau Chamber

Evetty Satterfield

Nikia Montgomery

Dr. Danisha Williams

Dawn Higgins

Photo courtesy of House Oversight Committee

Resort

Continued from B1

all a part of God’s plan.

A designer by education and trade, Robinson quit her nine to five in January 2020, due to a lack of creative expression, Robinson-Perkins just wasn’t feeling the position as a configuration manager anymore.

With the extra free time, she came home to Sikeston for a childhood friend’s wedding, and before her mouth could catch up with her lips she was asking about land for sale in between St. Louis and Memphis. Well in a small town like Sikeston everyone knows someone, and this particular someone knew of a great piece of an estate that had been on and off the market for about 10 years.

The friend of a friend told Robin-Perkins about the 95-acre property, she extended her visit and went to take a look at what her family’s future legacy had to offer. She says she was blown away because the first thing she noticed was the bright red barn and the sky-blue house with a wrap-around porch. The big surprise is that the property came with two more buildings, a gray barn and an all-brick mansion that looks like it came straight out of the movie, Gone With The Wind. Robinson-Perkins looked up and said, “God is this the beginning of the hotel?”. She says she knew it was

Banks

Continued from B1

from their next deposit.

In return, banks and credit unions across the country rake in $15 billion each year from cash-strapped customers with an average account balance of $350 or less. More monetary misery is added by some banks’ manipulative practices designed to maximize fees through delaying posting of account deposits, and/or reordering transaction.

It should be noted that some banks have voluntarily chosen to change or end their overdraft programs. Consumer advocates applaud lenders who have taken steps to reduce these costly fees. Yet there is no legal requirement for other institutions to do so. Some lenders continue to charge three or more overdraft fees of $34 or more per day, often costing consumers more than $100 in a single day. A typical debit card overdraft fee, the most common overdraft source, comes from a transaction of less than $24, repaid within three days. Put in lending terms, a $34 overdraft fee for a $24 loan of three days

divine because ideas and plans on how to design and utilize the space just started to come to her all at once.

Robinson-Perkins convened with the other siblings about the gem she had found and they were on board to move forward with the buying of the estate process.

The Robinson family became the new owners of the 95-acre estate, the Robinson Farm NxtGen is Black and proud, and rightfully so considering less than 2% of the nation’s hotels are owned by African-Americans according to the National Association of Black Hotel Owners, Operators, and Developers

The grand opening last month welcomed visitors from all over, they toured the Sunset Cottage which is designed from top to bottom by Robinson-Perkins, the house has a wrap-around porch that leads to the side entrance, where the oversized carport houses the teal-colored bikes.

The kitchen has the perfect amount of bright colors that give you a whimsical feeling, the light fixtures are unique and the living room has hints of neutral colors that gives tourists a cozy at-home feeling. The lower level has an entertainment space and bedroom. The cottage sleeps 10 guests, it’s great for a girl’s trip or brocation.

The pond is great for all fishermen and women, who are looking for a more outdoorsy adventure. Catfish,

is the equivalent of 17,000% APR.

As one consumer told the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), “$35 is a lot of money for a person that doesn’t have any.”

There’s nothing inherently wrong about a financial institution earning a fair profit. But there is nothing fair when billion-dollar institutions design products to prey upon people with the fewest financial resources – just to boost their bottom lines.

“Rather than competing on quality service and attractive interest rates, many banks have become hooked on overdraft fees to feed their profit model,” said CFPB Director Rohit Chopra

Other CFPB research has found that consumers who are charged more than 10 overdraft fees a year account for 75 percent of overdraft fees each year.

If you’re thinking ‘there ought to be a law,’ New York Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney agrees.

More than a year ago, she proposed the Overdraft Protection Act and was joined by 30 co-sponsors. Since that time, the number of co-sponsors has doubled to 60 and now

Robinson Farms NxtGen is the largest Blackowned resort in the state of Missouri. The family-owned and operated 95-acre resort is located in Cape Girardeau.

Blue Gill, and Bass live in the pond that sits on the property. And there is the Elle, the ‘big house’, the all brick mansion which sleeps 30 guests, 10 bedrooms and 11 bathrooms, it’s a place you have to see to believe. The mansion is named after her mother, Ella Mae. The larger-than-life house brings grace, and regalness to the country. It gives Bridgerton vibes, the king-sized wooden staircase spirals up to the second floor where a light fixture that is about three feet tall standing greets you in all “her” glory. Robinson-Perkins named her Esther. I see grand tea parties and weddings at the Elle. “It’s such a well-built home,” said the resort owner. The house is so massive it has secret doorways and tunnels.

Robinson-Perkins says for some of the suites she will decorate them based on her brothers’ and sisters’ personalities. The family plans to add a boardwalk that will take visitors around the property near the garden area, add tiny homes on the property for guests who want a more private vacation, and possibly an outdoor amphitheater. The possibilities are endless with 95 acres of land. She hopes the estate can be the Salamander Resort and Spa of the Midwest.

“Even if I can’t reap the benefits of what I’m doing now, the generations after me will,” said Robinson-Perkins. Ashley Winters is a Report For America reporter

include House colleagues representing 25 states including: California, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New York, and Texas. Companion legislation is also in the U.S. Senate.

The Overdraft Protection Act (H.R. 4277) would amend the Truth in Lending Act to strengthen fair and transparent bank practices. Among its provisions the bill would require “reasonable and proportional” fees in relation to the amount of the overdraft, expand prompt and detailed customer notifications and/ or statements, and provide customers the opportunity to cancel a transaction before incurring a fee.

For example, currently it is legal for banks to change the order of transactions, so they can debit accounts from largest to smallest to increase the number of overdraft fees triggered. As the banks maximize their overdraft revenues, consumers are drained of the dollars that can keep their households’ finances in the black. Rep. Maloney’s bill would ban such practices. Other research and advocacy bolsters Rep. Maloney’s legislative goal. Congressional testimony from the Center for Responsible Lending (CRL) highlighted how consumers of color are harmed the most by ill-conceived institutional practices.

“By causing account closures and eroding trust in financial institutions, bank overdraft practices fuel financial exclusion,” wrote CRL “Banks that are pledging millions or billions of dollars in investment in underserved communities while continuing to rake in hundreds of millions, or billions, of dollars annually in overdraft fees, are stripping wealth from the same communities they are claiming to support… Congress must hold these regulators accountable while itself ensuring that all checking accounts are free from destructive overdraft practices.” Charlene Crowell is a senior fellow with the Center for Responsible Lending.

Photo courtesy of Cape Girardeau Chamber

“It’s

sad that people think people of color don’t have the mind to manage.”

– Dave Roberts, L.A. Dodgers skipper, on the lack of Black MLB managers

Sports

InSIdE SportS

By Earl Austin Jr.

A world of American track excellence on display

Sydney McLaughlin sensational

For those good folks who have followed my career, you know about my love affair with the sport of basketball from my days as a player, coach, and currently as a writer and broadcaster.

You also know that my second love in sports is track and field. If you were following me on social media last week, you know that I was all in on the World Track and Field Championships, which were held in Eugene, Oregon. It was the first time that the World Championships were held on American soil and the athletes from the USA put on a show for the ages during the 10-day event. It is amazing to see what these young athletes are doing as they continue to elevate the sport with each dazzling performance after another. There was nobody at that meet that was more dazzling than American hurdler Sydney McLaughlin, who continues to set new and ridiculous new standards every time she steps on the track. In her signature race, the 400-meter hurdles, McLaughlin ran away from the field in an incredible time of 50.68 seconds. This was one of the most amazing things that I have seen in watching sports.

At last year’s Olympic Trials, Sydney broke the world record with a time of 51.9 seconds. At the subsequent Olympic Games in Tokyo, she won the gold medal and broke her own world record with a time of 51.46 seconds. At that time, I could not believe that I was witnessing a young lady run a full lap around the track over 10 hurdles in less than 52 seconds. McLaughlin had done it twice. And in that race, USA teammate Dalilah Muhammad won the silver medal in 51.68 seconds.

Little did we know that Sydney was just getting warmed up. When last week’s 400meter hurdles final rolled around, she blasted out of the starting blocks and ran away from

everyone early. And she kept going, and going, and going. When she had finished, she had crushed her own world record by a second. This race reminded me of the 1973 Belmont Stakes when the great Secretariat clinched the triple crown with a history 31-length victory. And it figured that if you put her 50.68 in the open 400-meter dash field, she would have placed in seventh place in the final. That’s mind blowing. Even more mind blowing is the fact that she’s just 22 years old. McLaughlin’s dominant performance in the hurdles was just the tip of the iceberg for her and her USA teammates. She closed out the championships with an anchor leg of 47.9 seconds as the USA coasted to victory in the 4x400-meter relay. She was joined on the relay

ran the fourth fastest time in history.

The USA women’s 4x100-meter relay team pulled off the upset of the championships when they defeated a loaded squad from Jamaica to win the gold. The team of Melissa Anderson, Steiner, Jenna Prandini, and Twanisha “Tee Tee” Terry stunned the Jamaicans, who featured the top three finishers in the open 100-meter dash.

In the women’s 800, Athing Mu won the gold medal to add to the one that she earned in Tokyo last year. The splendid 20-yearold has emerged as the queen of the middle distance in the past year. We have been waiting for more than a half a century for an American woman to come along in the 800

SportS EyE

With Alvin A. Reid

Professional athletes do all kinds of questionable things with their bodies to play a respective sport.

Some defer surgery for months because it would take them away from their team, pursuit of wins and a world championship.

Others have surgery when it could wait and then come back too soon for the same reasons. Pro athletes make many physical and mental sacrifices to be on that field, court or sheet of ice to be available every game possible. It’s about team. It’s about being a good teammate. I will never understand why a Major League Baseball player would refuse vaccination knowing that it could cost them games played in Toronto. Canada made it clear before the season began. You’re not crossing the border if you are unvaccinated.

and now we have one I Mu, who runs with great speed and elegance. On the men’s side, the USA dominated the sprints as they swept both the 100- and 200-meter dashes. In the 200, Noah Lyles was incredible as he won the gold medal and set a new American record of 19.31 seconds. He was followed by Kenny Bednarek and teenage sensation Erriyon Knighton to complete the sweep. Knighten, 18, is going to be truly special. In the 100, Fred Curley led an American sweep by taking the gold medal. Marvin Bracy and Trayvon Bromell followed him. The 4x400 team of Elija Goodwin, Michael Norman, Bryce Deadmon, and Champion Allison also dominated in winning the gold. The USA also swept the shot put and took the top two spots in the 110-meter-high hurdles.

Cardinal duo lets teammates down with vaccination decisions

better — and so especially do the teammates the 10 have left in an unnecessary bind.”

The St. Louis Cardinals did not have third baseman Nolan Arenado and first baseman – and National League MVP candidate – Paul Goldschmidt for a two-game series at Toronto because they refuse to be vaccinated.

“It’s just a personal choice, and I’m not trying to do a political stand here or be a spokesperson for this or that,” Arenado told MLB.com. “But it’s unfortunate that I’ve got to miss two games.”

Unfortunate? No, it was your choice. You chose to let your teammates down. “It was not an easy decision,” Goldschmidt said. “It stinks that I [couldn’t] play in Toronto and [couldn’t] play these next couple of games—I hate that part of it, but that’s unfortunately the consequence.”

The Kansas City Royals had 10 players ineligible for that road trip two weeks ago. Vahe Gregorian, a Kansas City Star sports columnist who once wrote for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, said this; “It’s sad and disillusioning. The Royals and their fans deserve

Again, unfortunate? It is your personal choice, and you chose to not play.

The Cardinals headed to Toronto with a 51-46 record, two-and-a-half games behind the NL Central leading Milwaukee Brewers. If the regular season had ended on

Sunday night, the Cardinals would have qualified for the wild-card round of the playoffs – barely. St. Louis was a game ahead of the Philadelphia Phillies.

Two key members of a team battling for a postseason berth abandoned their teammates. It does not matter the reason. They went AWOL, and Cardinals fans should never

forget it.

and abandonment of team

is the

position. Why take the chance?

The Reid Roundup St. Louis will be among the eight cities that field XFL teams in February 2023. For now, the franchise is not named “BattleHawks,” and my guess is it has something to do with copyright. League owners Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and his ex-wife and business partner, Dany Garcia, announced on July 24 that St. Louis, Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, Las Vegas, Orlando, Seattle, and Washington D.C., will field teams…Clothing designer Kacey Lynch crafted the black t-shirt that L.A. Dodgers outfielder Mookie Betts wore during batting practice before the July 19 All-Star Game. The air-brushed shirt read “We Need more Black People at the Stadium.” The creation has gone viral with purchase request coming from all over the world…I usually find NBA analyst Charles Barkley entertaining. This week I find him disgusting. After immediate blowback for considering a commentary role with the LIV Golf Tour, which is funded by the Saudi Arabian government, Barkley called it “selective outrage” in a New York Post article. If you are in pro sports, you are taking some type of money from not a great cause.” Speak for yourself, Chuck. Most pro athletes have never done that…The talk in Chicago is, “How does manager Tony La Russa still have a job?” The White Sox were 48-48 entering the week, three games back from a wild card berth. I guess it helps to be close friends with owner Jerry Reinsdorf

Unvaccinated

Nolan Arenado missed a twogame series at Toronto as did Paul Goldschmidt

The most galling part of their respective selfishness

concept

fact that they hint they would get vaccinated if there is a chance the Cardinals could play the Blue Jays in the World Series. Toronto was 53-43 when the week began, and solidly in a wild card

Alvin A. Reid

team by Talitha Diggs, Abby Steiner, and Britton Wilson. The quartet

Earl Austin Jr.

During the World Track and Field Championships recently held in Eugene, Oregon, Sydney McLaughlin ran away from the field in an incredible time of 50.68 seconds.

Photo by Earl Austin Jr.

Photo courtesy of Marquis Sports Network

World Wide Technology earns perfect score on 2022 Disability Equality index

Company recognized as a ‘Best Place to Work for

World Wide Technology (WWT), a $14.5 billion global technology solution provider, announced that its commitment to diversity and inclusion has been recognized with the top score in the 2022 Disability Equality Index® (DEI). The DEI is the world’s most comprehensive benchmarking tool for the Fortune 1000 and Am Law 2001 to measure disability workplace inclusion against competitors, launched by Disability:IN and The American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD).

WWT’s recent disability

Disability Inclusion’

inclusion efforts are the founding of the employee resource group WWT ABLE, which stands for we work together to help all achieve beyond labels and expectations. WWT ABLE used its inaugural year to focus on the workforce with education and engagement opportunities. This year’s assessment measured culture & leadership; enterprise-wide access; employment practices (benefits, recruitment, employment, education, retention & advancement, accommodations); community engagement; supplier

diversity; non-U.S. operations (non-weighted), along with including new non-weighted leadership questions about including disability in corporate board diversity criteria.

In 2022, WWT joined 415 corporations, including 69 Fortune 100, 188 Fortune 500, and 227 Fortune 1000 who utilized the DEI to benchmark their disability inclusion efforts. Out of 415 participants, 240 companies received a score of 100; 68 companies received a score of 90 and 27 companies received a score of 80. There was a total of 335 top scorers.

Gates Jr. to oversee new dictionary of African American English

Historian Henry Louis Gates Jr. announced this week that he will oversee the new Oxford Dictionary of African American English as editor-in-chief. Gates, who serves as director of Harvard’s Hutchins Center for African and African American Research, proposed the new dictionary as a joint venture of the Oxford

University Press and the Hutchins Center after he was approached about the representation of African American English in existing Oxford dictionaries, the New York Times reports. The three-year research project is funded by grants from the Mellon and Wagner Foundations and aims to serve as a record of African

American English, collecting definitions and histories of words. The first version is expected to publish in three years.

“The bottom line of the African American people, these are people who love language,” Gates tweeted.

Though many words that were originally or predominantly used by Black Americans are now commonly found among the larger U.S. population — such as “woke” and “hip” America has long looked down on

Black English, associating it with poverty and crime due to racist stereotyping. Yet Black English remains a staple of American culture. A 2018 study found it had an outsized impact on Twitter, where three of five common ‘patterns of lexical innovation appear to be primarily associated with African American English.’ “It is almost never the case that African American English is recognized as even legitimate, much less ‘good’ or something to be lauded,” linguist Tracey Weldon told the Times. “And yet it is the vocabulary that is the most imitated and celebrated — but not with the African American speech community being given credit for it.”

Big hospitals ‘provide skimpy charity care’ despite

A Wall Street Journal analysis shows they are often not particularly generous.

According to the Wall Street Journal, these charitable organizations, which comprise the majority of hospitals in the

U.S., “wrote off in aggregate 2.3% of their patient revenue on financial aid for patients’ medical bills. Their for-profit competitors, a category including publicly traded giants such as HCA Healthcare Inc., wrote

off 3.4%.”

In return for not paying taxes, nonprofit hospitals are supposed to provide community benefits. The clearest form is free or discounted care for poor patients who otherwise

couldn’t afford it, say many health-policy experts. Hospitals have traditionally described the cost of erasing, or writing off, bills as spending on “charity care.”

The report states that federal

billions in tax breaks

law requires nonprofit hospitals to have policies to assist such patients. But federal guidelines allow them broad freedom to write and implement those policies and don’t require hospitals to meet any specific targets for

financial-assistance totals, and that the value of nonprofit hospitals’ subsidy from avoiding taxes is more than $60 billion a year, according to estimates by Johns Hopkins University professor Gerard Anderson.

Henry Louis Gates Jr.

Living It

A Night at the Carnival

Adult prom at St. Louis’ BallPark Village sparkles

By Danielle Brown

The St. Louis American

Live! by Loews’ rooftop inside BallPark Village was transformed into a carnivalthemed adult prom last Saturday, July 23rd.

Dressed in their best outfits ranging from elegant sparkling evening gowns to tailored dapper tuxedos, guests were mesmerized the moment they stepped into the main event. The magical site featured fire dancers, trapeze artists, caricature drawings, and some of the best eats found at a fair, including funnel cake, corn dogs, and pulled chicken sandwiches. Empire signed artist and St. Louis native, Big Boss Vette (formerly known as Yvette), who has gained popularity from many of her hits

Bold enterprise

Koran Bolden launches tv show in his own backyard

By Ashley Winters

The St. Louis American

The “Lou” is known for many innovative, envelope-pushing, marching to the beat of their own drum celebrities and Koran Bolden is our very own celebrity who is keeping St. Louis on the map for all the positive things our city is doing. Bolden has two published books, he is an accomplished motivational speaker and he has a local radio show on Hot 104.1. Koran Bolden has taken his platform a step further with his very own tv show called the Koran Bolden Show which is locally recorded and produced right in our “backyard” and it’s about the blowup!

His set is bright and inviting, displaying the St. Louis Arch, with an infamous photo of him passionately screaming yeah.

“A lot of thought was also put into the creation of our signature motion background that features me and the St. Louis Arch that resonates with both our guests and viewers,” said Bolden.

join for a celebratory

n Like most proms, a king and queen was crowned. However, there was a twist. The winning couple was determined by who donated the most money to the selected charities

blowing up on TikTok, performed her catchy hit single, “Snatched.” DJ Shay Money served as the night’s mistress of the mixes.

Fiancees’ Donnah Thomas and Morgan Casey of Date Ideas and Things to Do in STL, hosted the event alongside Stacy Pugh, owner of event management planning company Hunni Pop.

“This is my second time doing it [hosting the prom],” Casey said “I had one in 2016 and

it sold out in 24 hours. I didn’t bring it back because it had gotten oversaturated in the city, but Big Boss Vette personally asked me to do the event again. I said I would only do it if I could do it with the right team, so I called Stacy [Pugh] and she made this happen for me.”

Pugh said she’s always loved and appreciated Casey’s love for St. Louis.

“Morgan and I share the same sentiments,” Pugh said. “We knew we wanted to bring people together from all backgrounds and have St. Louis join us for a night of fun.”

Thomas and Casey coordinated their emerald green outfits; Thomas wore a silk gown, while Thomas donned a black suit with a matching pocket square and flower. They said they had different prom experiences from each other.

“I went to prom with my best friend Leslie,”

See Prom, C3

A horror story divided

Peele’s ‘Nope’ a striking visual stimulant that falls short on storytelling

By Kenya Vaughn The St. Louis American

Since the release of the cryptic trailer for Nope, Jordan Peele fans have been on the edge of their seats waiting to see if the follow up to his 2019 film Us will live up to the hype.

Whether it does or not depends on who is asked. Expect a resounding no from audiences simply looking for a good scare. They will leave disappointed by the painfully slow-burning, convoluted thriller about strange encounters at a Blackowned ranch that specializes training horses for Hollywood.

The film’s pedestrian stride makes provision for the overflow of stunning aesthetics – which will frustrate those in search of a suspenseful horror film with a more traditional format and pace. Written, directed and produced by Peele, Nope is a film curated with filmmakers, cinephiles and critics in mind.

n Back stories and side themes are randomly peeled back during the acts. But the ensemble of actors fully commit to telling whatever story the viewer decides to take away from ‘Nope.’

The cinephiles will be left divided. Those with tastes that lean towards imagery, strategic concept diversions and the opportunity for the viewer to draw their own conclusions about the film’s intention and obstacles will consider Nope a triumph. The others will appreciate the care and meticulous attention to detail taken to create a masterful cinematographic effort in addition to the solid performances by the ensemble of actors – but will be underwhelmed at best by the incomplete (and at times seemingly pointless) narrative and character arcs.

Peele made his filmmaking debut with an exclamation point by way of Get Out. With it he changed the game within the mainstream horror genre by incorporating racism and racially charged themes. He followed up with Us, an enjoyable, if serviceable effort that will forever exist in the shadow of Get Out. With Nope, Peele further ascends with the visual elements of his filmmaking. Unfortunately, he also appears to be in a state of regression with respect to story.

Nope is a thriller told in several acts.

The film begins with a jolt and gives viewers the expectation of unpredictable moments of sheer terror at any given moment. But after the first scene, the film slows to a crawl with flashbacks that presented the promise of a delightful scare or a terrifying connection to the main story that never quite land. Back stories and side themes are randomly peeled back – but not completely – during the acts.

But the ensemble of actors fully commit to tell-

See Bolden, C10

Actress Keke Palmer in a Scene from the film “Nope.”

Photo by Taylor McIntosh | The St. Louis American

Husband and wife owners of LUXE Department Store, Andre and Tiana Tunstall,

dance after being crowned king and queen at The Night at the Carnival Adult Prom hosted Saturday, July 23, 2022, at Live! by Loews.

Author, motivational speaker and radio host Koran Bolden has taken his platform a step further with his very own tv show called the Koran Bolden Show.

Photo by Phillip Ellington

Photo courtesy of Universal Pictures

Guests danced the night away at The Night at the Carnival Adult Prom hosted Satur-

medicine to help me feel better and I almost overdosed. I was in the hospital with my dress on and everything for my senior prom. I had to redo my prom and this time bring my queen.”

Thomas said. “We knew it would be hard to find dates so we went with each other since we were best friends all throughout high school. I won prom queen, I had a great prom experience.”

While Thomas’ prom was fine and dandy, Casey’ was the opposite.

“I ended up in the hospital,” Casey said. “I was feeling sick that day. I took a bunch of

Continued from C1

ing whatever story the viewer decides to take away from ‘Nope.’ Daniel Kaluuya, whose breakthrough role came by way of Peele’s Get Out stars as Otis Haywood Jr., O.J. for short. He resigns himself to keeping the family legacy that includes a piece of cinematic history and a nod to African American’s contribution to it. Kaluuya’s

Pugh attended a private high school and said her prom was more intimate. She didn’t have a date and only went with friends.

Like most proms, a king and queen was crowned. However, there was a twist. The winning couple was determined by who donated the most money to the selected charities: Show Me Arts Academy and Urban Sprouts Child Development

plays O.J. as one of the most indifferent protagonists ever seen on film. So much so that his indifference feels a bit antagonistic to the plot as it unfolds. But it plays well against Keke Palmer’s portrayal of O.J.’s high strung, hustling little sister Emerald Haywood – who keeps enough irons in the fire to prevent her from fully committing to the family business of Hollywood horse wrangling. The comedic timing of Palmer played against the deadpan Kaluuya serves up makes

Center.

Andre and Tiana Tunstall, husband and wife owners of LUXE Department Store off Washington Avenue raised the most money for both organizations.

“We thank yall for coming out tonight,” Casey said. “We want to give a handclap for [Big Boss Vette]. The only reason we’re here is because of her. She asked us to do this prom maybe a month and a half, two months ago. She’s the type of person when she asks you to do something you say, ‘Yes.’”

for just enough comic relief to provide a temporary escape from the meandering story. The main cast also includes Daniel Perea, Michael Wincott, Steven Yeun with a brief but impactful appearance by Keith David. The ebb and flow of the actors’ chemistry is about the only element that general audiences, devotees to the art of cinema and critics will all find mutually enjoyable.

Jordan Peele’s Nope opens in theatres on Friday, July 22. The film is rated R with a running time of 131 minutes.

Taylor McIntosh | The St. Louis American

day, July 23, 2022 at Live! by Loews.

TD Jakes facing harsh rebukes for Father’s Day sermon

By Raquel Rogers Houston Defender Network

While delivered six weeks ago, a Father’s Day sermon by Bishop T.D. Jakes about the state of families and contemporary women is causing a firestorm on social media.

The megachurch pastor’s message argued today’s women aren’t applauded for embracing their femininity, as society’s culture now idealizes women being too independent.

“This breaks all the sociological order of the culture we are living in now. Because we are raising up women to be men,” said Jakes.

“And you are not applauded for your femininity,” the pastor continued, speaking to his female congregation.

“You are applauded in the contemporary society by how tough, rough, nasty, mean, aggressive, hateful [and] possessive you are. And you’re climbing the corporate ladder, but we are losing our families.”

“I know you can buy your own car. I know you can buy your own house. But until you create a need that I can pour into, I have no place in your life. So stop coming home bragging to me about how much you don’t need me, and wonder why I shy away,” Jakes added, offering his version of the male perspective.

Titled “Real Men Pour In,” the hour-long sermon has almost 620,000 views on YouTube.

Many internet users have been sharing their disapproving opinions on

Spiritually Speaking…. Beware the pat on the back

By James A. Washington

My mother used to have a phrase when she was alive. Usually referring to me and my attitude when I thought I had done something particularly noteworthy. She used it when describing somebody who started acting like they were better than someone else or, basically felt their No. 2 didn’t stink. She would say that person was simply, “smelling him or herself.” I came to see it as fishing for a compliment.

The bible says unless your deeds are done to glorify God rather than yourself, you’re ‘smellin yoself.’ I’m here to tell you it’s at these times that one ought to be very careful because

spiritually, you’re entering deep water.

“Be careful not to do your acts of righteousness before men, to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward in heaven.” Matthew 6:1.

It appears that intent and motivation are the true indicators of a person’s real character and ultimately how he or she is viewed by God. Doing the right thing for the wrong reasons gets you nothing. Zilch. Nada. I mean, supposedly, if you are trying to impress friends and family, or trying to receive honors from your fellow man for doing good deeds, you’re smelling yourself and sorely in need of some Right Guard. Doing what you know is right —

Jakes’ Father’s Day sermon since clips of the message have recently circulated online.

Since many in the Black church community revere Jakes as a pillar of faith, some Black women feel his message is targeted, irresponsible and misguided.

On Instagram, underneath a clip of Jakes’ sermon, Unfit Christian founder Danyelle Thomas penned: “Between Kim Burrell the Pulpit Bully and TD

forgiving your enemies, turning the other cheek, helping the less fortunate, speaking truth to power — these are the things that are supposed to be done so that others might see the deed(s) as glorifying the Almighty; not so that people will be impressed with you.

Columnist James Washington

Even in prayer, the bible says, “But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Your Father will reward you. Matthew 6:6. Haven’t we all been unimpressed with someone who appears to sincerely help us or help another person out of what appears to be the goodness of their heart, only to find them with their hands out to get theirs, or their backs

Jakes mouth breathin’ into the mic to call Black women masculine, I’m exhausted.”

“Y’all still asking women to shrink. Still preaching to us as the problem AND problem solvers. Still shackling misogynoir to virtuous womanhood and calling it God’s word,” Thomas continued.

“Y’all still preaching and singing bout love but not living or leaning into it for real. We still letting riffs, runs,

turned so the world can pat them on it? God tells us in His own ways that if you do that, talk to the hand because the ears ain’t listening. You don’t give to receive, and you don’t love to be loved. That’s blackmail. That’s extortion. It’s impure and spiritually unacceptable. Give because you want to and love because it’s who you are. Anything else is a fraud and an affront to Jesus who gave His all and loved unconditionally, so that we all might live. “In the same way let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise the father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16. Granted, walking around with that level of purity in one’s heart might be a bit much for most of us, present company included. However, it’s pretty easy to know, acknowledge and understand that the real reason we reach out to someone else is to be seen as a good person by others. We all want to be thought highly

and cadence tickle our emotions as ‘the gift comes without repentance’ for folks really doing harm in Jesus’ name.”

“At this rate, the Black Church will die by its own hand. What a disappointment,” her post ended.

Other responses at that website include, “Nothing deep here. Women can be anything they want. Most households need two incomes these days, and how many men honestly share 50/50 with the cooking, cleaning and the kids? Quit bashing women, she is almost always the one who sacrifices the most.”

“TD Jakes’ sexist rhetoric in that viral clip is lazy scapegoating. Some Black women are bitter [because] they’re sick of misogyny the same way some Black [people] are bitter due to racism. To pretend we all just woke up mad for no reason is dishonest and divisive.”

“Women, especially African American women, have had no choice but to step in the role of a man. There’s no woman who doesn’t want a provider/protector but when you’ve done it for so long it can be difficult to adjust to a man coming in to be a man.”

of by our peers, our parents and those closest to us. But in reality, only God counts when it comes to appreciating who we really are. Anything else is show. The rest is ego. “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.” Proverbs 16:18. All of this points to being true to one’s self, then talking the talk and walking the walk. The echo of my mother’s wit resonates in my mind as I try to remember exactly what mom was trying to teach me about myself. Before I get too full of me, the real test just might be a good whiff of the fragrance underneath my arm. Nobody can pour anything into a full vessel. How you ‘smellin’ today? May God bless and keep you always.

This commentary was originally published in The Atlanta Voice

Bishop T.D. Jakes

DIRECTOR

Umetulisha, a local food ministry, is seeking a director. We are looking for applicants with the following experience and skills: budget oversight; working with a board; kitchen management; staff supervision, and a willingness to pursue development. Umetulisha is the food preparation ministry of New City Fellowship Church and Restore St. Louis. It serves more than 200,000 meals annually with a budget of more than $400,000. The ministry also needs a part-time cook. If interested, contact Andrew Stern: andrew@ncfstl.org

ARBORIST

The City of Richmond Heights is accepting applications for the position of Arborist $45,254 - 50,290. To apply go to https://richmondheights. applicantpro.com/jobs/

BUILDING INSPECTOR

The City of Richmond Heights is accepting applications for the position of Building Inspector $47,969 - 59,240 DOQ. To apply go to https://richmondheights. applicantpro.com/jobs/

AVP & SENIOR COUNSEL

Under the direction of the Vice President & Assistant General Counsel (“VP & AGC”), manages business transactional support for the Company’s various business units, select corporate (non-Claims) litigation, and other legal affairs of the Company.

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

THE CITY OF JENNINGS IS ACCEPTING

APPLICATIONS FOR THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS:

The City of Jennings is accepting applications for the following positions: Recreation Specialist; Deputy Building Commissioner; Finance Director; Correctional Officers, Seasonal Parks Crew Laborer; Court Clerk, Public Works Laborer; F/T Accounting Clerk; P/T Accounting Clerk; P/T Assistant to the City Clerk; P/T Public Works Laborers; P/T Site Monitor; P/T Concession P/T Stand workers; P/T Umpire; P/T Scorekeeper; P/T Economic Development Assistant. Please see the full job descriptions online at www.cityofjennings.org. Applications are available at the Jennings City Hall or on the website at www.cityofjennings. org. The City of Jennings is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.

FULL TIME DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT

Seed St. Louis is hiring a full time Director of Development

For more information go to seedstl.org

HIRING FOR FULL-TIME POSITIONS

The City of Clayton is hiring for full-time positions. Apply at https://bit.ly/3pGDCgY EOE

BUILDING

INSPECTOR SENIOR

The City of Richmond Heights is accepting applications for the position of Building Inspector Senior $64,193 DOQ. To apply go to https://richmondheights. applicantpro.com/jobs/

LEAD TECH SUPPORT ENGINEER I

Provide guidance and serve as the point of escalation to the tier 1 technical support engineer for technical software, hardware and network problem resolution to all Safety National computer users. Ensure all troubleshooting is done in a consistent manner, and KBA’s are used if applicable. Review standard operating procedures and make suggestion where improvements can be made. To apply, please visit: https:// www.safetynational.com/ careers-page/

INSURANCE OPERATIONS ANALYST

Responsible for providing client / customer support to the operational functions of the Large Casualty unit. Responsible for the coordination, issuance and tracking of transactions and services provided to ensure customer service standards are maintained. Operates as a Subject Matter Expert for transactional issuance. To apply, please visit: https:// www.safetynational.com/ careers-page/

COORDINATOR – TREATY REINSURANCE

Provide technical support to Treaty Reinsurance (TRe) Department underwriters. Responsible for booking premium-related transactions, maintaining systems data and business reports, handling contract wording approval processes, and adhering to daily and seasonal SOX compliance processes. To apply, please visit: https://www.safetynational. com/careers-page/

DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

Position is responsible for the development and implementation of an integrated communications and public affairs strategy to enhance the organization’s reputation and advance strategic goals. This position will be held by a self-starter who manages media relations and develops contacts with media members, influencers, and community leaders. The position is an expert in communications in all forms, from written press releases to speeches. Responsibilities include oversight of both external and internal messaging, including creating digital, video, audio, social media and print content.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

B.A. from an accredited college or university in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism or related field with high-level knowledge of communications and media relations required. 5 – 7 years of increasingly responsible managerial experience in public relations, corporate communications or marketing with a focus on media relations, publications, and digital communications. Salary: $85,000 - $104,903 Annually. Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience. Apply via our website www.slha.org. Position will be open until filled. A Drug Free Work Place/EOE.

COORDINATOR – ACCOUNT SERVICES – TECHNICAL SERVICES

Mid-level non-exempt position responsible for providing technical assistance, user acceptance testing, and documenting end users processes for the policy administration systems and supporting software applications. Work performed adheres to established process procedures, guidelines and customer standards set by the organization.

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

3 jobs openings at Heat-Up St. Louis, Inc., (Cool Down St. Louis), at different sites. Looking for part-time or full-time. Some college, or college graduate. Excellent computer and verbal customer service skills for direct-utility assistance and referrals. Professional casual dress. No open-toe shoes. Math, administrative and Excel experience helps. Will work with mostly clients via website, telephone bank; and one site person-to-person, in a very anti-COVID environment. Work Schedule: M-F, anywhere in the 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. timeframe. Email resume to c/o Personnel Committee, at: jobopportunitiesheatupstl@gmail.com An Equal Opportunity Employer GUARDIAN AD LITEM –FAMILY COURTJUVENILE DIVISION

St. LouiS american Bids & Public Notices

CAROUSEL PAINTING RESTORATION RFP 2022

The Saint Louis Zoo seeks bids from qualified firms to submit proposals for Carousel Painting Restoration RFP 2022. Bid documents are available as of 7/27/2022 on the Saint Louis Zoo website: stlzoo.org/vendor

2023 STLZOO MAGAZINE- PRINT RFP

The Saint Louis Zoo seeks bids from qualified firms to submit proposals for 2023 stlzoo MagazinePrint RFP. Bid documents are available as of 7/27/2022 on the Saint Louis Zoo website: stlzoo.org/vendor

STLZOO MAGAZINE- DESIGN RFP 2022

The Saint Louis Zoo seeks bids from qualified firms to submit proposals for stlzoo Magazine- Design RFP 2022. Bid documents are available as of 7/27/2022 on the Saint Louis Zoo website: stlzoo.org/vendor

LETTING NO. 8754

LACLEDE AVENUE PEDESTRIAN STREET LIGHTS

Electronic bids submitted through the Bid Express Online Portal will be received by the Board of Public Service until 1:45 PM, CT, on August 16, 2022, then publicly opened and read. Proposals must be submitted electronically using “Bid Express Online Portal” at https://www. bidexpress.com/businesses/20618/home. Plans and Specifications may be examined on the Board of Public Service website http://www.stl-bps.org (BPS On Line Plan Room) and may be purchased directly through the BPS website from INDOX Services at cost plus shipping. No refunds will be made.

An optional pre-bid conference for all contractors bidding on this project will be held at onsite at Laclede Avenue and North Taylor Avenue on the 2nd day of August, 2022, at 10:00 in the morning. All bidders are encouraged to attend the pre-bid meeting.

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

All bidders must regard Federal Executive Order 11246, “Notice of Requirement for Affirmative Action to Ensure Equal Employment Opportunity”, the “Equal Opportunity Clause” and the “Standard Federal Equal Employment Specifications” set forth within and referenced at www.stl-bps.org (Announcements).

PUBLIC NOTICE

ADVERTISE YOUR BIDS, PUBLIC NOTICES, AUCTIONS, AUDITS, SUMMARY & LEGAL DOCUMENTS

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.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND

ADVISORY

COUNCIL ELECTIONS

Manchester, MO., [August 1, 2022] – Aging Ahead will hold elections to fill two seats for the Board of Directors: one representing St. Louis County and one representing Jefferson County, and three seats for the Advisory Council representing Franklin County.

Elections will be held at the Agency’s senior centers located in St. Louis, Jefferson and Franklin counties on Tuesday, Aug. 30, 2022, with early voting available starting Tuesday, Aug. 23, 2022 at www.agingahead.org

If interested, reach out to your local senior center, call Chelsea Snorton at 636-207-0847, or email csnorton@agingahead.org for an Application for Candidacy and more information. The application is also available to download at www.agingahead. org. Completed applications are due to senior centers or at Aging Ahead’s central office, 14535 Manchester Rd, Manchester, MO 63011 by Monday, August 15, 2022 no later than 12pm via mail, email or in person.

In addition to operating 19 senior centers in its four-county service area of St. Louis, St. Charles, Jefferson and Franklin counties, Aging Ahead provides supportive services to persons 60 and over, family caregivers and adults with disabilities.

To ensure safety against COVID-19, masking and social distancing guidelines will be strictly followed. Candidates are encouraged to contact their local senior center for more information.

SEALED BIDS

Bids for Change in Scope Rebid: U p g r a d e F i r e Alarm and Security Systems, Center for Behavioral Medicine Kansas City, MO Project No. M1903-01 will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, August 25, 2022. For specific project information and ordering plans, go to: http://oa.mo. gov/facilities

SEALED BIDS

Bids for Replace E m

State

R2112-01, will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, 8/25/2022 via MissouriBUYS. Bidders must be registered to bid. For specific project information, go to: http://oa.mo.gov/

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

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

NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS

Sealed bids for the Kehrs Mill Road Retaining Wall Replacement project, St. Louis County Project No. AR-1836, will be received electronically thru the County’s Vendor Self Service portal at https://stlouiscountymovendors. munisselfservice.com/Vendors/ default.aspx, until 2:00 p.m. on August 24, 2022

Plans and specifications will be available on July 25, 2022, from the St. Louis County Web Site (www.stlouiscountymo.gov) or by contacting Cross Rhodes Print & Technologies, 2731 South Jefferson Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63118 (314) 678-0087.

DIRECTOR OF PROCUREMENT AND ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES ST. LOUIS, COUNTY

REQUEST SOR PROPOSALS

Sealed bids are requested for Licensed Contractors for: Riverview Gardens School District RFPs 266- Roof Replacement for Buildings 3&4 High School 268- Roof Replacement for FCRC 269- Roof Replacement Building 7 High School 270-Roof Replacement for Front of Glasgow St. Louis, Missouri Qualifications and sealed bids will be received by the Riverview Gardens School District Board of Education at the Riverview Gardens School District Central Office, 1370 Northumberland Drive, St. Louis, Missouri 63137, until September 1, 2022 at 2:00 p.m., CDT. Bid proposals will be publicly opened and read aloud by the school administrative staff. Late bids will not be accepted and will be returned to the sender, unopened. Bids submitted via facsimile machine will not be accepted. A 10% Bid Security will be requires with each proposal. Bid Proposals will be firm for sixty (60) calendar days. The buildings will be made available for inspection during the mandatory pre-bid meeting. A mandatory pre-bid meeting will be held on August 17, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. CDT. The pre-bid meeting will begin at Riverview Gardens School High School at 1218 Shepley Drive, St. Louis, Missouri 63137. Interested Contractors may obtain plans and specifications by visiting Riverview Gardens School District website www.rgsd.k12.mo.us

The Board of Education reserves the right to reject any and all proposals, to waive information and technicalities and to make the award in the best interest of the district.

NOTICE OF VIRTUAL PUBLIC HEARINGS ST. LOUIS COUNTY

AGENCIES: St. Louis County is the “Lead Agency” for the St. Louis County HOME Consortium. The St. Louis County HOME Consortium is a group of contiguous units of local government that have joined together for the purpose of receiving HOME funds and administering a HOME Program as a single grantee. The members of the St. Louis County HOME Consortium include St. Louis County, the City of Florissant, Jefferson County, St. Charles County, and the City of O’Fallon.

ACTION: Notice is hereby given that the 2022 Annual Action Plan has been drafted by the St. Louis County HOME Consortium. The draft may receive several updates prior to submission to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

SUMMARY: The 2022 Annual Action Plan summarizes the proposed actions of the St. Louis County HOME Consortium. The document includes the following programs funded by HUD: Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME), and Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) programs. This document provides information on how funding received through the CDBG and ESG programs will be spent in St. Louis County as well as information on how HOME funds will be spent in St. Louis County and in the jurisdictions of the members of the St. Louis County HOME Consortium.

AVAILABILITY OF REVIEW MATERIALS: A copy of the St. Louis County HOME Consortium’s 2022 Annual Action Plan will be available for public review and comment on July 12— August 11, 2022 at the locations specified in this notice during normal business hours, Monday thru Friday:

St. Louis County Government Buildings

• Administration Building, 41 S. Central Avenue, Clayton, MO 63105

• Northwest Crossing, 715 Northwest Plaza Drive, St. Ann, MO 63074

• Department of Public Health, 6121 North Hanley Road, Berkeley, MO 63134

• South County, 4546 Lemay Ferry Road, St. Louis, MO 63129

City of Florissant

• Government Building, 1055 rue St. Francois, Florissant, MO 63031 Jefferson County

• Jefferson County Economic Development Corporation, 5217 Highway B, Hillsboro, MO 63050

St. Charles County

• Administrative Building, 201 N. Second St., St. Charles, MO 63301

City of O’Fallon

• City Hall, 100 N. Main Street, O’Fallon, MO 63366

St. Louis County Library System

• Select branches of the St. Louis County Library System

All documents are also available upon request by contacting Sonya Venerable at svenerable@stlouiscountymo.gov or on the St. Louis County website at https:// stlouiscountymo.gov/st-louis-county-departments/human-services/communitydevelopment/.

PUBLIC HEARING: A virtual public hearing will be held on August 10, 2022 from 5:00–6:00 pm for the 2022 Annual Action Plan. Please join the meeting from your computer, tablet, or smartphone from the meeting link: https://spaces. avayacloud.com/spaces/621e4c4bfe80d275e3d73159. You may also dial in using your phone at 855-378-8822. Persons with disabilities or who otherwise need assistance should contact Sonya Venerable at svenerable@stlouiscountymo.gov at least 48 hours in advance of the hearing.

COMMENT PERIOD: Comments concerning the 2022 Annual Action Plan should be made during the public comment period; the comment period is July 12—August 11, 2022. Written comments will be accepted until 5:00 pm on August 11, 2022 and may be submitted via email to aellis@stlouiscountymo. gov or mailed to Amy Ellis, Director, St. Louis County Office of Community Development, 500 Northwest Plaza Drive, Suite 801, St. Ann, MO 63074. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

NOTICE REGARDING TRAFFIC COURT COMMISSIONER VACANCY

TO ALL ATTORNEYS RESIDING IN ST. LOUIS COUNTY, MISSOURI

The Circuit Court of St. Louis County, Missouri, announces that it is soliciting candidates for the position of Traffic Court Commissioner of the Circuit Court of St. Louis County.

The Circuit Judges and Associate Judges will make the appointment for a term of (4) years, at an annual salary of (1/3) of an associate circuit judge and (1/3) the approximate time commitment, payable by the State of Missouri, pursuant to RSMo §479.500

Missouri law requires the Traffic Court Commissioner(s) to possess the same qualifications as an associate circuit judge, including those set forth in the Missouri Constitution, Article V, Section 21, to wit, they must be qualified voters of the state, residents of St. Louis County, Missouri, at least twenty-five years old, licensed to practice law in Missouri; and possess all other qualifications as required by law. (See RSMo §479.500).

Questionnaires and Candidate Instructions may be obtained by sending a resume and cover letter to St. Louis County Circuit Court, ATTN: Human Resources, 105 S. Central Avenue, Clayton, Missouri, 63105, or via email to SLCCourtJobs@courts.mo.gov

Completed questionnaires must be submitted in writing to St. Louis County Circuit Court, ATTN: Human Resources, 105 S. Central Avenue, Clayton, Missouri 63105, or via email to SLCCourtJobs@courts.mo.gov on or before August 31, 2022

The appointment is scheduled to take place upon a vote of the Court en Banc on or about September 7, 2022 or at such time as announced by the Presiding Judge. EOE. Please contact the Human Resources Department at 615-4471 (voice) or RelayMo 711 or 800-735-2966 if you need any accommodations in the application process, or if you would like this posting in an alternative form.

BIDS

Brandenburg Industrial Service Company is requesting interested Certified MBE, SDVE, WBE, DBE Diverse Suppliers to contact us to bid in reference to the Missouri University of Science & Technology - “Power Plant Demolition” project number RC000196, located in Rolla MO. You may reach us at 312-528-1135 or pulchr@brandenburg.com We are seeking trucking, fueling, earthwork and other applicable scopes. Sub bids needed back by 8/3/22.

SOLICITING BIDS

Great Rivers Greenway is soliciting bids for Gateway Arch National Park radio system improvements. Check https://greatriversgreenway. org/jobs-bids/ and submit by August 23, 2022.

SEALED BIDS

Bids

CANDIDACY FILING 2022

On Tuesday, November 8, 2022, the Castle Point Street Light District will vote to fill one seat (Six-year term) on the Board of Directors who operate and maintain streetlights in the Castle Point Neighborhood. Qualifications: Must be a current resident in the District., no taxes owed, (A tax affidavit must be filled out, notarized, and returned to the Board Secretary), must have a current Missouri State ID or MO Driver’s License. Interested residents must appear to file a Declaration of Candidacy. Candidate Filing will be held on Sat. July 30, and Sat. August 6 from 9:00 a.m. – 12 noon at the Lewis & Clark Branch Library -9909 (Hwy 367) Candidate filing will close Sat. August 6, 2022 at 12:01 p.m.

SOLICITING BIDS

Great Rivers Greenway is soliciting bids for security camera replacement in Gateway Arch National Park. Check https://greatriversgreenway. org/jobs-bids/ and submit by August 24, 2022.

SEALED BIDS

Bids

Renovations S

Barn, Missouri S

, Sedalia, MO, Project No. F2205-01 will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1 : 3 0 P M , S e p t

m

8, 2022. For specific project i

m a t i o n and ordering plans, go to: http://oa.mo. gov/facilities

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL:

SSD 113-22: NEW CENTRAL TRANSPORTATION FACILITY

Project Manual and drawings will be available through County Blue Reprographics beginning on August 9, 2022. A $150.00 refundable deposit check made out to Special School District will be required for paper copies of plans, a $75.00 non-refundable fee will be required for electronic digital downloads. A non-mandatory pre-bid meeting will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday, August 12 at SSD Central Garage 10022 Meeks Blvd, Overland, MO 63132 Bids are due at 2:00 pm on September 6, 2022 at Special School District Purchasing Department, 12110 Clayton Road, St. Louis, MO 63131.

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE:

Advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, imitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial\status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.

“We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law.

All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.”

NOTICE OF ELECTION

BALLOT

PRIMARY ELECTION

CITY OF ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI

TUESDAY, AUGUST 2, 2022

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Primary Election will be held at the designated polling place for each precinct in the City of St. Louis, State of Missouri, on Tuesday, August 2, 2022. The polls will be open between the hours of 6:00 A.M. and 7:00 P.M. for the purpose of nominating candidates for United States Senator, State Auditor, United States Representative District 1, State Senator District 4, State Representative Districts 76-82 and 84, Collector of Revenue, License Collector, and Recorder of Deeds. All voters will also be able to vote on two propositions. In addition, eligible voters in former Ward 21 will be able to vote for a candidate to fill the unexpired term of the former Alderperson, and eligible voters in portions of Ward 1, Precincts 3, 5 and 8 will be able to vote on the Holly Hills Special Business District proposition.

The last day the Board of Election Commissioners could accept an application to vote an absentee or mail-in ballot by mail in the August 2, 2022 Primary Election was 5:00 P.M. on Wednesday, July 20, 2022. Absentee voting in person will conclude at 5:00 P.M. on Monday, August 1, 2022. The Board of Elections office will be open on Saturday, July 30, 2022, from 9:00 A.M. until 1:00 P.M.

THE OFFICIAL BALLOT WILL BE SUBSTANTIALLY IN THE FOLLOWING FORM:

INSTRUCTIONS TO VOTERS; In today’s election, you have your choice of using either an electronic, touch-screen voting machine or an optical scan voting machine to cast your ballot.

IF YOU USE THE OPTICAL SCAN VOTING MACHINE to cast your ballot, you must completely darken the oval to the left of the name of the candidate of your choice. To vote on a proposition, if you are in favor of the proposition completely darken the oval to the left of the word “YES.” If you are against the proposition, completely darken the oval to the left of the word “NO.” Do not try to punch through the ballot. Use only the marking device provided to you. If you tear, deface or make a mistake and incorrectly mark the ballot, return it to the Election Judges and obtain a new ballot.

IF YOU USE THE ELECTRONIC, TOUCH-SCREEN VOTING MACHINE, follow the directions on the screen to cast your ballot. For each candidate, touch the box on the screen to the left of the name of the candidate of your choice. To vote on a proposition, if you are in favor of the proposition touch the box on the screen to the left of the word “YES.” If you are against the proposition, touch the box on the screen to the left of the word “NO.” If you need assistance in using the machine, please ask the Election Judges to help you.

REPUBLICAN PARTY CANDIDATES

FOR U. S. SENATOR (Vote for One)

Patrick A. Lewis

Eric Schmitt

Billy Long

Eric Greitens

Bernie Mowinski

C.W. Gardner

Deshon Porter

Vicky Hartzler

Dave Sims

Mark McCloskey

Eric McElroy

Dennis Lee Chilton

Robert Allen

Dave Schatz

Hartford Tunnell

Kevin C. Schepers

Rickey Joiner

Robert Olson

Russel Pealer Breyfogle, Jr.

Darrell Leon McClanahan III

Curtis D. Vaughn

FOR STATE AUDITOR (Vote for One)

David Gregory Scott Fitzpatrick

FOR U. S. REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 1 (Vote for One)

Steven Jordan

Andrew Jones

Laura Mitchell-Riley

FOR STATE SENATOR DISTRICT 4 (Vote for One)

Mary Theresa McLean

FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 80 (Vote for One)

Kirk Hilzinger

FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 81 (Vote for One)

Jake Koehr

FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 82 (Vote for One)

Robert J. Crump

FOR COLLECTOR OF REVENUE (Vote for One)

Robert Vroman

FOR LICENSE COLLECTOR (Vote for One)

Michael Hebron

FOR RECORDER OF DEEDS (Vote for One)

Timothy Gartin

DEMOCRATIC PARTY CANDIDATES FOR U. S. SENATOR (Vote for One)

Lewis Rolen

Gena Ross

Carla Coffee Wright

Josh Shipp

Spencer Toder

Lucas Kunce

Jewel Kelly

Clarence (Clay) Taylor

Pat Kelly

Trudy Busch Valentine

Ronald (Ron) William Harris

FOR STATE AUDITOR (Vote for One)

Alan Green

FOR U.S. REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 1 (Vote for One)

Ron Harshaw

Michael Daniels

Cori Bush

Earl Childress

Steve Roberts

FOR STATE SENATOR DISTRICT 4 (Vote for One)

Karla May

FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE

DISTRICT 76 (Vote for One)

Marlon Anderson

FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE

DISTRICT 77 (Vote for One)

Kimberly-Ann Collins

FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE

DISTRICT 78 (Vote for One)

Rasheen Aldridge, Jr.

FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE

DISTRICT 79 (Vote for One)

LaKeySha Bosley

FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE

DISTRICT 80 (Vote for One)

Peter J. Merideth

FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE

Steve Butz

Bill Stephens

DISTRICT 81 (Vote for One)

FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE

DISTRICT 82 (Vote for One)

Donna M.C. Baringer

FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE

DISTRICT 84 (Vote for One)

Del Taylor Wiley (Chip) Price

FOR COLLECTOR OF REVENUE (Vote for One)

Gregory F.X. Daly

FOR LICENSE COLLECTOR (Vote for One)

Mavis (Tessa) Thompson

FOR RECORDER OF DEEDS (Vote for One)

Michael Butler

LIBERTARIAN PARTY CANDIDATES FOR U.S. SENATOR (Vote for One)

Jonathan Dine

FOR STATE AUDITOR (Vote for One)

John A. Hartwig, Jr.

FOR U.S. REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 1 (Vote for One)

George A. Zsidisin

FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 80 (Vote for One)

Rebecca Sharpe Lombard

CONSTITUTION PARTY CANDIDATES

FOR U.S SENATOR (Vote for One)

Paul Venable

GREEN PARTY CANDIDATES

FOR RECORDER OF DEEDS (Vote for One)

Jerome H. Bauer

Don De Vivo

OFFICIAL BALLOT SPECIAL BOND ELECTION ST. LOUIS PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT PROPOSITION S

Shall The Board of Education of the City of St. Louis borrow money in the amount of One Hundred Sixty Million Dollars ($160,000,000) for the purpose of acquiring, constructing, renovating, repairing, improving, furnishing and equipping school sites, buildings and related facilities in the District, including but not limited to (1) removing lead paint, fencing and other hazardous materials at affected schools, (2) upgrading mechanical systems to include replacement of outdated or obsolete equipment, temperature controls, and duct cleaning to increase ventilation, (3) upgrading building infrastructure by replacing roofs, tuck-pointing, waterproofing and window replacements, (4) improving security systems to increase student safety by installing fire alarm systems and replacing interior and exterior doors, (5) upgrading technology to modernize classrooms and improve academic performance, (6) improving building conditions by renovating restrooms and other ADA improvements, and (7) increasing learning opportunities by creating outdoor learning spaces and making improvements to playgrounds and athletic fields and facilities, and issue general obligation bonds for the payment thereof?

If this proposition is approved, the adjusted debt service levy of the school district is estimated to remain unchanged at the current rate of $0.6211 per one hundred dollars assessed valuation of real and personal property.

Yes -- For the Proposition No -- Against the Proposition

OFFICIAL BALLOT PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT PROPOSITION F

Shall Section 24 of Article IV of the City’s Charter be changed to increase the maximum fine for violations of City ordinances regarding preservation and protection of environmental conditions for preventing harm to the health, safety, and comfort of City residents or harm to private or public property such as unauthorized dumping of waste or debris on private or public property, prohibited refuse, waste tire disposal, and the like from $500.00 to $1,000.00?

Yes -- For the Proposition No -- Against the Proposition YOU HAVE NOW COMPLETED VOTING.

We, the Board of Election Commissioners within and for the City of St. Louis, State of Missouri, do hereby certify that the above and foregoing is a true and correct list as certified to us by the Honorable John R. (Jay) Ashcroft, Secretary of State of the State of Missouri, of the candidates for federal and state office, as well as candidates for county office and issues, entitled to be voted for at the Primary Election to be held August 2, 2022.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, we have hereunto set our hands and affixed our seal at the office of the Board of Election Commissioners in St. Louis, Missouri, this 15th day of June, 2022.

BOARD OF ELECTION COMMISSIONERS FOR THE CITY OF ST. LOUIS

JERRY M. HUNTER Chairman/Member

GERALDINE M. KRAEMER Member

DEREK WINTERS Member

(Seal) Attest: JOSEPH A. BARBAGLIA Secretary/Member

St. LouiS american Bids & Public Notices

NOTICE OF ELECTION

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by the Board of Election Commissioners for the City of St. Louis, State of Missouri, that a Special Election will be held at the designated polling place for each precinct in the Holly Hills Special Business District (the “District”) in the City of St. Louis, State of Missouri, on Tuesday, August 2, 2022. The polls will be open between the hours of 6:00 A.M. and 7:00 P.M. for the purpose of allowing eligible voters in the District to vote on whether a tax of $.65 per $100.00 valuation shall be imposed for the tax years 2022 through 2031 on all real property located in the District.

The last day the Board of Election Commissioners could accept an application to vote an absentee ballot by mail in the August 2, 2022 Special Election was 5:00 P.M. on Wednesday, July 20, 2022. Absentee voting in person will conclude at 5:00 P.M. on Monday, August 1, 2022. The office of the Board of Election Commissioners will be open on Saturday, July 30, 2022 from 9:00 A.M. until 1:00 P.M.

THE OFFICIAL BALLOT WILL BE SUBSTANTIALLY IN THE FOLLOWING FORM:

INSTRUCTIONS TO VOTERS: In today’s election, you have to use an optical scan voting machine to cast your ballot. If you are in favor of the proposition, completely darken the oval to the left of the word “YES.” If you are against the proposition, completely darken the oval to the left of the word “NO.” Use only the marking device provided to you. If you tear, deface or make a mistake and incorrectly mark your ballot, return it to the Election Judges and obtain a new ballot.

OFFICIAL BALLOT SPECIAL ELECTION

CITY OF ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI

AUGUST 2, 2022

PROPOSITION

(HOLLY HILLS SPECIAL BUSINESS DISTRICT)

Shall a tax of $.65 per $100.00 valuation be imposed for the ten tax years of 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029, 2030 and 2031 on all real property located in the Holly Hills Special Business District as defined in Ordinance No. 71507, approved on June 1, 2022 as Board Bill No. 10AA, for the purposes as set forth in said Ordinance?

Yes – For the Proposition No– Against the Proposition

YOU HAVE NOW COMPLETED VOTING.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF: The undersigned, comprising the Board of Election Commissioners for the City of St. Louis, State of Missouri, have caused this notice to be signed and the official seal of the office to be affixed at the office of the Board in St. Louis, Missouri, this 15th day of June, 2022.

BOARD OF ELECTION COMMISSIONERS

JERRY M. HUNTER Chairman/Member

GERALDINE M. KRAEMER

DEREK WINTERS Member Member

(Seal) Attest: JOSEPH A. BARBAGLIA Secretary/Member

NOTICE OF ELECTION

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by the Board of Election Commissioners for the City of St. Louis, State of Missouri, that a Special Election to fill the unexpired term of 21st Ward Alderman will be held at the designated polling place for each precinct in the 21st Ward in the City of St. Louis, State of Missouri, on Tuesday, August 2, 2022. The polls in the 21st Ward will be open between the hours of 6:00 A.M. and 7:00 P.M.

The last day the Board of Election Commissioners could accept an application to vote an absentee ballot by mail in the August 2, 2022 Special Election was 5:00 P.M. on Wednesday, July 20, 2022. Absentee voting in person will conclude at 5:00 P.M. on Monday, August 1, 2022. The office of the Board of Election Commissioners will be open on Saturday, July 30, 2022 from 9:00 A.M. until 1:00 P.M.

THE OFFICIAL BALLOT WILL BE SUBSTANTIALLY IN THE FOLLOWING FORM:

INSTRUCTIONS TO VOTERS: In today’s election, you have your choice of using either an electronic, touch screen voting machine or an optical scan voting machine to cast your ballot.

IF YOU USE THE OPTICAL SCAN VOTING MACHINE to cast your ballot, you must completely darken the oval to the left of the name of the candidate of your choice. Use only the marking device provided to you. If you tear, deface or make a mistake and incorrectly mark your ballot, return it to the Election Judges and obtain a new ballot.

IF YOU USE THE ELECTRONIC, TOUCH SCREEN VOTING MACHINE, follow the directions on the screen to cast your ballot. To vote for the candidate of your choice, touch the box on the screen to the left of the candidate’s name. If you need assistance in using this machine, please ask the Election Judges to help you.

OFFICIAL BALLOT SPECIAL ELECTION

CITY OF ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI AUGUST 2, 2022

FOR ALDERMAN WARD 21 (UNEXPIRED TERM) (VOTE FOR ONE)

LAURA KEYS DEM

JOANN DYSON WILLIAMS IND

MELINDA L. LONG IND EBONY MOORE IND WRITE-IN _________________________

YOU HAVE NOW COMPLETED VOTING.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF: The undersigned, comprising the Board of Election Commissioners for the City of St. Louis, State of Missouri, have caused this notice to be signed and the official seal of the office to be affixed at the office of the Board in St. Louis, Missouri, this 15th day of June, 2022.

BOARD OF ELECTION COMMISSIONERS

JERRY M. HUNTER Chairman/Member

GERALDINE M. KRAEMER

DEREK WINTERS Member Member

(Seal) Attest: JOSEPH A. BARBAGLIA Secretary/Member

code can be scanned from your smartphone which will allow viewers to purchase featured products and services from the show’s guests, and will also allow the community to support those same businesses with a link to donate as a micro crowdfunding tool using the Koran Bolden Show.

“My community outreach and marketing company, The Bold Moves Agency has currently helped raise over $250,000 in funding for Saint Louis area nonprofits using our social media partners. Now that same system and group will be used to help gain financial capital for the guests on the Koran Bolden Show,” said Bolden.

The show currently has three episodes completed, the show’s guests include Tasha Fox, owner, and operator of Chick-fil-A located in North Country. Mike Woods, co-founder of Dream Builders 4 equity, Reggie D. Smith, owner of Pure Heat hot sauce and Q, owner of The Only Lifestyle clothing brand.

So how did the Koran Bolden Show come about?

“During the pandemic, I have seen top-tier organizations scramble around to find innovative ways to keep youth and young adults interested in job opportunities, community information, and access to resources,” said Bolden.

In his opinion, many of those organizations failed our youth because they didn’t invest in connecting with the youth using social media.

“I decided to create a new television show that not only could translate messages in

a way that youth and young adults could understand and relate to, but also could move them into a positive direction,” said the show host.

Bolden says he has over 40,000 followers online that have produced over 10 million impressions, he knew that this show would become the new way that companies and organizations could reach an underserved demographic by meeting them right where they are at, their cell phones. Bolden says without his team there wouldn’t be a show, he is so grateful for everyone involved. His behind-the-scenes videographer, multiple photog-

raphers, production assistants, and strategic planners, all have helped him use his talents and voice in a way that resonates on tv.

During the first taping Bolden was a nervous wreck, funny right? A motivational speaker nervous in front of the camera, Bolden says his nerves got so bad that his guest had to ask him if he was ok. But he reassured himself that it’s go time, and once the camera was on him, he knew it was now or never.

And the need is now, Bolden says. The overarching goal of his show is to highlight St. Louis’ everyday heroes and their

n “It’s time to do what I am called to do,

and

- Koran Bolden

stories of triumph. In response to so many negative messages on social media, he decided to create a television show for youth and young adults to better inform themselves on topics such as leadership, mental health, and building generational wealth. Through the Koran Bolden Show, he hopes to dismantle the school-to-prison pipeline and decrease youth violence in our communities. He says it all starts with what the younger generation is seeing in mainstream media.

Bolden’s plans to show another side of St. Louis, “Highlight the positivity to offset the current imbalance of toxic media currently showcased in the world,” said Bolden.

“It’s time to do what I am called to do, which is to utilize my voice to transform the hearts and minds of the people of St. Louis,” said Bolden.

The Koran Bolden Show is set to launch in October, along with his new school tours and community awareness campaigns centered around mental health.

Visit, KoranBoldenShow. com to get on his text and email blasts for the full show launch details.

Ashley Winters is The St. Louis American Report for America reporter.

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