June 16th, 2011 edition

Wedding bells and business boosts

Nixon stalls on calling special session

Aerotropolis advocates say the time to act is now

By Rebecca S.Rivas

Of The St.Louis American

On May 13, the last day of Missouri’s 2011 legislative session, the so-called “Aerotropolis” proposal died when legislators couldn’t resolve their differences on tax credit reforms to a larger economic development bill. Aerotropolis had been bundled as part of that development package.

“It’s time for us to act to bring this thing home.It’s real. We are well positioned at this moment.”

– State Sen. Eric Schmitt

Advocates of Aerotropolis claim its tax incentives would spur the creation of 23,000 construction jobs and 13,800 new permanent full-time jobs. They also say it would put St. Louis in a better bargaining position to attract major new cargo and passenger landings at the airport, which could attract other kinds of business development by making Lambert a more accessible and competitive air hub.

For any of this to be possible, legislators need to come to a resolution soon, said

See NIXON, A6

Aloha for the cure

Lessons from my father

By Michael Kennedy Jr.

For The St.Louis American

As I mentor young kids who have charisma, athletic talent, intelligence and musical gifts, but no father figure, I hear my dad’s voice speaking to me as I was growing up. As president of the company he founded, KAI Design & Build, the wisdom he gave me throughout my life prepared me for today and I am proud to pass it on.

“If you can’t communicate, then you can’t lead, sell, borrow or trade,” says my dad, Michael Kennedy Sr., even to this day. I interpreted “communication” as talking to my classmates, until I ended up in the hall for disrupting a class. I communicated, but without purpose other than to entertain.

“There is a time and place for entertaining your friends” was another lesson. My dad has a gift of gab and a great sense of humor. He is a purposeful communicator, which is

See

HOMEGOINGFOR REV. DR. WILLIAM G. GILLESPIE

‘He lived his life as a servant who loved to the utmost

By Kenya Vaughn Of The St.Louis American

“We are not here to say goodbye to Rev.Gillespie, we are here to celebrate his life.”

– Martin Mathews

The sanctuary, both overflow corridors and the basement of Cote Brilliante Presbyterian Church were all at capacity Saturday morning for the final services for the Rev. Dr. William Gillespie. Rev. Gillespie passed away Friday, June 3, 2011 at the age of 80 after more than a half-century of service to his parishioners and the St. Louis community. At his Homegoing service, he was praised by leaders of the

See GILLESPIE, A7

Photo by Wiley Price HAPPY FATHER’S DAY

Michael Kennedy Sr. and Michael Kennedy Jr.of KAI Design & Build

Aloha Mischeaux warmed up with about 64,000 other runners before the start of the Susan G.Komen Race for the Cure Saturday morning in downtown St.Louis.The race is the largest annual fundraiser for the St.Louis Affiliate of Susan G.Komen for the Cure.Last month the local affiliate awarded more than $3.1 million to fund breast cancer screening,treatment,education and support programs in its service area.

Pallbearers bring the body of the Rev.Dr. William G.Gillespie, civil rights leader and longtime pastor of Cote Brilliante Presbyterian Church, to the hearse outside the church with his family following close behind after services on Saturday.

Photo by Wiley Price

Sex, kidnapping and videotape

Shaquille O’Neal is embroiled in a criminal case in which 7 gang members allegedly kidnapped, beat up and robbed a man who claimed to have a tape showing Shaq having sex with other women while he was married to Shaunie Ladell Rowles – a member of the Main Street Maia Crip Gang in L.A. who is friends with Shaq – along with 6 other members went on a search and destroy mission in L.A. on February 11, 2008.

The men allegedly surrounded Robert Ross’ Rolls Royce Phantom and ordered him to drive to Rowles’ house in South Central L.A. Once there, Rowles allegedly pistol whipped Ross and demanded that he turn over the sex tape. Ross said he would get the

tape and bring it back to them. The 7 men then allegedly took Ross’ Rolex, diamond chain and earrings, along with $15,000 in cash and then let Ross go.

The 7 men have been arrested and charged with robbery, kidnapping and other crimes. When the case ile went to the D.A. Shaq was not listed as a suspect.

According to TMZ.com, Ross has a history with Shaq. Shaq and his business manager, Mark Stevens, have a record label and allegedly told Ross they would give him a 50% cut in any artists he brought to them. Ross claims he delivered Ray J to Shaq but got cut out of the deal.

He threatened Shaq by telling him about the sex tape, threatening to release it unless Shaq paid up. Ross told Shaq a “security camera” captured the action and it was all on tape. But Ross told cops the security camera recycles periodically and the video no longer exists.

When wild comedians attack

A strange turn of events resulted in the arrest of comedian Katt Williams on Saturday. A man on a tractor trailer doing work on a house Williams was staying in was attacked by three women from inside the house who threw rocks and dirt clods at him. After being hit in the face and head

the man called his wife to pick him up. Once she arrived, Williams blocked the woman in the driveway and that’s when the man called the police. The women who attacked the guy were charged with assault with a deadly weapon and Williams was charged with felony intimidation of a witness. Bail for Williams was set at $50,000.00 and he was released later that night.

T.I. shows Nelly love in latest letter Imprisoned rap star T.I. reached out with a letter that was posted on his web site. An excerpt from the letter reads as follows: I’m sure you already know I’m nearing the end of this chapter of my life, and looking forward to taking all of the things I’ve learned with me while leaving all the rest of the “BS” behind. I can’t even begin to tell y’all how much being on the outside looking in, having to witness all that’s going on (and not going on) in the game affects me. Not being able to do what I love especially. It’s like a whole other sentence within itself. But I really do appreciate all the love, respect, shout outs and salutations during this very dificult period in my life. Everybody from da homies Weezy, Killa Mike, R. Rozay my lil bruh B.o.B, Terrence J (106 & Park) and my “durty” Nelly. Regardless of whether the

gestures were the greatest or the smallest, they still meant the world to me.

REAL TALK. The separation from my art has deinitely sparked an inferno of inspiration that will soon be felt by all.

Public apology refusal costs Eddie Long millions

New Birth Missionary Baptist Church pastor Bishop Eddie Long is paying nearly $25 million and has given an apology to settle claims he had sexual relationships with four young male parishioners, a source told the Redding News Review. The source said Long refused to give a public apology, which ended up costing him more. What began as a $2 million agreement to settle the case for each of the four men quickly rose to $5.5 million for the plaintiffs, the source said, only because

In support of Morehouse Men

Parents association and alumni host scholarship fundraiser

Special to The American

“You can always tell a Morehouse Man, but you can’t tell him much,” announced Dr. Robert M. Franklin, the 10th president of Morehouse College, proudly eyeing the group of Morehouse alumni and current Morehouse students seated amidst the 350 attendees at this year’s 3rd Annual Morehouse Men of Style Fashion Show Luncheon.

Dr. Franklin was the special guest and keynote speaker of the luncheon that was sponsored by the St. Louis Morehouse Parents Association and the St. Louis Morehouse Alumni Association recently at the St. Louis Frontenac Hilton. He expressed his gratitude on behalf of the college to the luncheon attendees for their support of and investment in the college that produced such celebrated leaders as civil rights champion Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., ilmmaker Spike Lee, actor Samuel L. Jackson, Olympic gold medalist Edwin Moses, United States Surgeon General David Satcher, Secretary of Health and Human Services Louis W. Sullivan, and a legion of business executives, physicians, lawyers, judges, academics and educators.

Dr. Franklin instills in his students the expectation that they will join the ranks of these esteemed alumni and become “Renaissance men with a social conscience and global perspective.” To this end, Dr. Franklin has challenged students to embrace his “Five Wells” – to be Well-Read, Well-Spoken, Well-Traveled,

Well-Dressed and Well-Balanced.

Dr. Franklin’s vision has garnered much praise and support from students, parents and community leaders. Mary H. Thomas, one of the founders and president of the St. Louis Morehouse Parents Association, said she attributes the unparalleled success of Morehouse Men to their unique mix of talent and discipline, their unrelenting persistence and the unfailing support of their families.

Mrs. Thomas is the mother of Jean A. Thomas, M.D. (‘03) and Bryant Thomas (’08). However, such success requires not only that students take up Dr. Franklin’s charge, but that they be around to do so. Dr. Franklin divulged that each year, scores of students who are on the road to achievement are derailed due to the ever-rising costs of education and an increasingly sluggish economy. During the zenith of the recession, more

than 200 students in their last year were unable to secure suficient inancial aid to continue their education and graduate.

Even with a recovering economy, many students –from freshmen to seniors – who began this past Spring semester had to depart from the school prematurely, in debt and without a degree, due to their inability to cover the costs of their last semester. It is the primary mission of the St. Louis Morehouse Parents Association to support these students through scholarship fundraisers, and the annual fashion show luncheon has become the association’s signature means of doing so.

In addition to raising scholarship funds for new and current Morehouse students, the luncheon serves to bring attention to the inancial plight of African-American men striving to achieve higher education, to introduce St. Louis high school students to the

college and to honor St. Louisarea distinguished alumni of Morehouse College.

This year’s class of honorees included John E. Armstrong (‘93), area director for the United Negro College Fund for the states of Missouri and Kansas; David A. Calloway (‘04), chief council and vice president of Business Development for Grifin Global Capital and KG Group Holdings, Inc. in Atlanta; Jonathan C. Davis, M.D. (‘03), a family medicine resident at Southern Regional AHEC in Fayetteville, N.C.; Duane Martin Foster (‘92), head of the choral department for Normandy High School and the founding director of the Norman Performing Arts Academy and the Normandy Dance Academy; the Rev. Dr. Samuel W. Hylton Jr. (’49), pastor emeritus of Centennial Christian Church; and Alvin R. Sams, DDS (‘76), pediatric dentist and founder of Dental Kids.

From council to convict

No Beamer behind bars for Michael Collins

Well, it’s off to Memphis for former East St. Louis City Councilman Michael Collins. No, Collins won’t be visiting Graceland, but he will be on an extended, all-inclusive, 50-month vacation, courtesy of U.S. District Judge William Stiehl and the federal government.

That was the sentence that Judge Stiehl imposed on Collins as the result of years of criminal activity, tax evasion and ingratitude for leniency shown during previous convictions for election fraud in 2006 and 2008.

to ile or pay taxes over a long period until you learned that you had been found out.” In addition, after serving prison time, Collins must not seek nor hold public ofice during his three years of supervised release.

It is a itting chastisement and punishment for one who apparently had little or no regard for legalities or for individuals (living or dead), irrespective of Collins’ apology to family and friends.

Collins’ offenses were extensive. He failed to ile federal income tax returns for 13 years and didn’t ile state returns for 22 years. He used a fake address for the purpose of voting in ESL elections while living in Swansea, IL.

But it didn’t stop there. Not even the dead were safe from Collins’ criminality, as he used the social security number of one dead man, operated a business without an employment ID number and, by his own admission, co-mingled his bank accounts.

The sentence was on the high end of the federal sentencing guidelines, which Collins’ attorney Robert Stientjes pointed out.

However, Judge Stiehl justiied his decision by stating to Collins, “From the evidence in this case, it’s clear and convincing that you’ve been milking our system of government for a long period of time. You failed

And in the days following his sentencing (and prior to his incarceration), Collins learned the true meaning of “restitution” when the feds forced the former high roller to surrender construction equipment and personal vehicles as partial restitution for the $342,375.14 that Collins was forced to repay to the IRS. After all, Mike won’t need luxury or recreational vehicles behind bars.

So the government cleanedup, collecting a Cadillac Escalade, BMW 745i, Ford F-350 pick-up, a Takeuchi semi truck, Kenworth semi-truck and Kobelco 300 excavator.

So if you’d like to ride in style or need some heavy-duty yard work done, look up the next federal auction near you, courtesy of Uncle Mike. I know that I’m making light of a reprehensible situation, but it is a itting (and comical) end to the criminal career (for now) of one who should have been made an example of some time ago. If it dissuades only one individual from pursuing the lifestyle that Michael Collins lived, then it is well worth the efforts of the government and folks (like me) who simply report the obvious. Email: jtingram_1960@ yahoo.com.

If You are African American and Suffered Farm Loan Discrimination by the USDA between 1981 and 1996, You may be eligible for money from a $1.25 billion class action Settlement Fund (Heirs/Kin may be included)

There is a proposed class action Settlement with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) involving racial discrimination against African American farmers between 1981 and 1996. This Settlement is only for certain people who tried to file a late claim in the original Pigford case, or their heirs (kin) and legal representatives. The current Settlement (sometimes called Pigford II) provides benefits to some of those late filers.

Am I included?

You may be included if you:

•฀Between฀1981฀and฀1996,฀were฀discouraged฀or฀prevented฀from฀applying฀for฀or฀ were฀denied฀a฀USDA฀farm฀loan฀or฀other฀beneit,฀or฀you฀were฀given฀a฀loan฀with฀ unfair฀terms฀because฀of฀racial฀discrimination, •฀Were฀eligible฀for฀a฀payment฀in฀the฀original฀ Pigford ฀case,฀ and •฀Submitted฀a฀late-iling฀request฀that฀was฀denied฀or฀never฀considered฀because฀it฀ was late.

If you are the heir or kin of someone who died who its this description, you may file a claim for a payment that would become part of the deceased person’s estate. If you are not sure if you (or someone for whom you are the legal representative) are included, please call 1-877-810-8110. You are not included if you received a payment in the original Pigford case.

What does the Settlement provide?

You may be eligible for a substantial cash payment and USDA loan forgiveness from the Settlement. You will need to file a claim to be eligible for these benefits. The claims deadline may be as early as February 28, 2012. The Court has appointed lawyers to help you file a claim under the Settlement. You do not have to pay them or anyone else to help you with the claims process. These attorneys will ask the Court for fees and expenses of between 4.1% and 7.4% of the Settlement Fund, and the Court will decide how much they are paid. You may hire your own lawyer, if you wish, at your own expense. If you have questions or need more information, call 1-877-810-8110.

What else should I know?

The Court will hold a hearing on September 1, 2011 to consider whether to approve the Settlement and ฀a฀ request for attorneys’ fees and expenses. If you want to object to or comment on the Settlement or appear at the hearing, you need to ile ฀a฀ letter with the Court by August 12, 2011. If the Court approves the Settlement, you will not be able to sue the USDA about your farm loan discrimination claims in the future.

Mary Thomas, Darryl Sams (standing in for Brother Dr. Alvin Sams), Duane Foster, John Armstrong, Dr. Jonathan Davis, Dr. Robert Franklin, the Rev. Samuel Hylton and David Calloway

James Ingram

EDITORIAL /COMMENTARY

Smart new start for minority inclusion

When the St. Louis Minority Business Council changed its name to the St. Louis Minority Supplier Development Council this year, it signaled a focus on grooming more productive relationships between minority-owned business enterprises (MBEs) and the area’s large corporations that hold and distribute most of the region’s wealth. Today, the council will intensify this focus with the announcement of the Billion Dollar Impact, a new initiative in which area businesses pledge to do an additional $1 billion of business annually with MBEs. The goal, said James Webb, president and CEO of the council, is for St. Louis corporations to upgrade the collective value of their contracts with area MBEs from $3 billion to $4 billion annually within the next three years. The council will track the effect of these voluntary corporate pledges in quarterly reports.

A voluntary pledge is anything but a binding agreement, but Webb is conident that the initiative will produce results based on the commitment of the council’s Board of Directors – in particular its leadership, board chair Dennis W. Weisenborn, vice president of Ameren, and board vice president Steve Cockerham, a BJC Health Care vice president who has transformed the process of mandating minority inclusion in subcontracting. The council’s board also includes top executives at Laclede Gas, U.S. Bank, Metropolitan Sewer District, Boeing, Monsanto, Express Scripts, World Wide Technology and Enterprise Holdings. “We are going to start with the commitment from our board and add corporations as we go,” Webb told The American. Walgreens, to name one corporation not represented on the council’s board, has made the pledge.

The initiative is a public/private partnership. Webb will announce the Billion Dollar Impact today at the council’s Business Opportunity Fair alongside Gov. Jay Nixon and Mayor Francis G. Slay, who are fully supportive, as is County

Executive Charlie A. Dooley and – a key player in statewide efforts at minority inclusion – Kelvin Simmons, who directs the state’s Ofice of Administration.

Webb emphasized that this is not a zero sum game, where money is transferred from majorityowned irms to MBEs, though it seems impossible for the initiative to succeed without some transfer of capital being spent in the region.

“We’re not swapping dollars,” Webb said. “Our goal is to increase employment through minority businesses. The data show that 77 percent of new hires in Missouri are from small and minorityowned irms.”

We applaud Webb, his board leadership, their bosses (very much including Tom Voss, CEO of Ameren, who deserves special recognition for his substantial and unprecedented commitment to minority inclusion at the utility giant) and the elected oficials who have offered their support.

Although there is a moral imperative to act fairly, it is only recognition of their enlightened self interest that will grow and sustain this initiative.

Whether or not the initiative succeeds in generating new jobs and wealth, even “swapping dollars” would improve the region in this case, given the crippling race-based disparities that face St. Louis by every measure: wealth, employment, health, education. As Aristotle said, poverty is the father of crime and revolution. The violent crime that disproportionately plagues the African-American community in St. Louis, and spills over to impact everyone, is keyed directly to the entrenched poverty in many of our black neighborhoods. Part of the solution is through enhanced economic opportunity. This new initiative focused on improving economic opportunities for African Americans in St. Louis is a step in the right direction. “It’s a beginning,” Webb said, and we agree – a positive beginning.

COMMENTARY

Front and (too) center

Mitt Romney. With every poll showing him in the lead for the Republican presidential nomination, his heart must sink.

Like Hillary Clinton, Rudy Giuliani and quite a few others who never got to be president, Romney has the misfortune of being an early front-runner. Normally, we’d expect the rest of the ield to make an issue of every crazy, intemperate thing the leading candidate has ever said or done. This year, however, the pack is assailing Romney with documented examples of chronic, blatant, incorrigible moderation. Even –shudder – pragmatism Romney is basically an ideological conservative who believes in tax cuts as a panacea and is content to watch the American middle class continue its long, sad decline. But in today’s Republican Party, merely positioning oneself to the right of Ronald Reagan isn’t enough. Apparently, it’s also necessary to eschew all reason. Hence the young campaign’s most unfortunate new coinage, courtesy of Tim Pawlenty: “Obamneycare.” That’s the word he used Sunday to describe President Obama’s health care law, which borrowed ideas from the reform package Romney devised and implemented when he was governor of Massachusetts.

T-Paw clearly received the stop-making-sense memo and perhaps took it a bit too seriously. Last week he released an economic “plan” that proposed tax cuts so deep that the deicit would soar by $5.8 trillion over the next decade. To mitigate this disastrous projection, T-Paw assumes that his chainsaw tax-cutting will somehow induce the economy to grow at a sustained rate of 5 percent a year. That’s more than double the expected rate, and will not happen – but even if it did, and pigs learned how to ly, the deicit would still grow by $2 trillion over 10 years.

Pawlenty acknowledged Sunday that his plan is “a stretch” and perhaps should be described as “aspirational.” You know, like planning to fund one’s retirement by buying a lottery ticket.

Since Romney could never endorse a proposal so contemptuous of basic arithmetic, I suppose Pawlenty did succeed in deining himself as a kind of anti-Romney. T-Paw’s problem is that he’s stuck down toward the bottom of the pack along with all the other also-ran antiRomneys, such as former Sen. Rick Santorum, who charges that Romney isn’t a true conservative at all.

For good measure, Santorum includes Jon Huntsman, who was Obama’s ambassador to China before he quit to ponder a presidential run. “I think they have held positions in the past that have not been conservative, and I think they have to account for those,” he said of Romney

The Way I See It - A Forum for Community Issues

Holder was right about crack

U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder took another step forward in trying to right a horrendous wrong in the long running drug-reform ight. He announced that thousands of federal prisoners sentenced under the grossly unfair crack cocaine sentencing law may be eligible for early release.

The old law required that judges tack a minimum mandatory sentence of ive years on anyone caught with crack cocaine. More than 80 percent of those sentenced for crack use are poor, illeducated blacks. Yet those caught with the same amount of powdered cocaine, mostly whites, often middle-class and suburban, get probation and referrals to drug diversion programs.

After years of pressure, Congress last year scrapped the old sentencing statute, and equalized the sentences for powdered and crack cocaine use. Still, this change did not make the new, fairer sentencing retroactive.

For now, Holder’s recommendation for the early release of many of the prisoners is only a recommendation. Several ranking GOP congressional members have voiced opposition to the release plan.

The next hurdle is the U.S.

Sentencing Commission. It still must take a formal vote to approve the revised sentencing guidelines. The commission almost certainly will inalize the changes. But conservative drug warriors may still try to rally support against immediate implementation of the sentencing change.

A judge or the Bureau of Prisons can simply order a prisoner, who received a mandatory sentence for crack sale or possession, to be released. But that’s by no means a given.

In many cases, the prisoners or their attorneys will have to petition their sentencing judges for their early release.

In 2005, a large group of federal judges said it was time to change the sentencing law. They expressed outrage over the patently unfair disparity in sentencing drug offenders for virtually the same crime. They were also deeply resentful that the law hamstrung their discretion to impose sentences.

In several judicial districts, judges quietly rebelled, bent the rules and lightened sentences for some irst time offenders. In other cases, though, judges haven’t been willing to loosen the screws on sentencing. So the process for early release could become a drawn-out labyrinth of petitions and legal wrangling.

Federal prosecutors also could have a say in which prisoners are released and which ones aren’t. In some federal districts, prosecutors have taken

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Nixon: veto voter I.D.

Dear Gov. Nixon: The House Democratic Caucus formally requests that you veto House Committee Substitute No. 2 for Senate Bill 3, which would impose an unnecessary photo voter identiication requirement that could disenfranchise an estimated 230,000 Missourians. House Democrats unanimously opposed Senate Bill 3 when it came to a inal vote and subsequently voted to make sustaining a veto of the bill an oficial caucus position.

“compassionate judges.” The blood of Mr. Reiter is stained on whatever judge let the dirtbag punk out of jail.

B. Hall St. Louis

Gift of life

a hard line on all drug offenders, no matter how petty. In other districts, prosecutors have focused on major drug dealers and cartels, rather than on the petty dealers and users. They are more likely to voice no opposition to the early release of small-time offenders. But even if every prisoner who is eligible for release under the attorney general’s plan goes free, that still would affect fewer than 6,000 prisoners. These prisoners have absolutely no extenuating circumstances, such as a prior criminal conviction, and are the ones most likely to receive early release. Still, many irst-time drug offenders, who had the misfortune to get hit with the unfair sentences and faced long years of incarceration, have been given a lifeline of hope. The importance of this can’t be minimized; it opens a large window for the Obama administration, Congress and the public to rethink how the nation deals with drug use and abuse when the offenders are black and poor.

President Obama’s election did reopen the door on efforts to do away with the disparities. Holder would not have sharply called the sentencing disparities “dramatically more severe,” made the recommendation for early release of prisoners suffering under those disparities, and pushed for an end to the disparities without the blessing of the White House.

and Huntsman.

That’s not quite fair. Romney is a conservative by any reasonable deinition of the word. It’s just that he has a habit of taking objective reality and the views of his constituents into account.

When he was running one of the nation’s most liberal states, he governed as if he were prochoice. When he looked for Republican-endorsed ideas to expand health-insurance coverage, he settled on the universal mandate that lies at the heart of, groan, Obamneycare. When the nation was on the precipice of a new Great Depression in 2009, he supported an economic stimulus package but differed with the one that Obama and the Democrats enacted.

Romney believes in science and therefore accepts that human activity is contributing to climate change. He said in 2007 that he supported capand-trade energy policy “on a global basis,” but not for the United States alone. He was for comprehensive immigration reform until his campaign four years ago, when he became a hard-liner, but now he seems to be trying to edge back toward reality on the issue.

I’ve always believed that Romney’s chief asset as a potential GOP nominee is his ideological lexibility. But his chief impediment to winning the nomination is a recidivist pragmatism that causes him to commit deeds that today’s GOP will not let go unpunished.

Eugene Robinson’s email address is eugenerobinson@ washpost.com

Senate Bill 3 is also premature since it would not become effective until and unless voters ratify House Committee Substitute No. 2 for Senate Joint Resolution 2 at the November 2012 general election. It would be inappropriate for a statute implementing photo voter ID rules to become law before the people of Missouri have had the opportunity to determine if the General Assembly should be granted the constitutional authority to do so.

Furthermore, while supporters of Senate Bill 3 claim it would reduce fraud, the facts show otherwise, since the only type of voting fraud a photo ID requirement could address is voter impersonation at the polls, and there has never been a documented case of voter impersonation in Missouri.

For the above reasons, the House Democratic Caucus again requests that you veto Senate Bill 3 and pledges its uniied support for sustaining your veto.

State Rep. Mike Talboy Missouri House of Representatives

Messed up justice system

After having read the heartbreaking story about Paul Reiter, maybe you should focus your next series of articles on why Rico Paul, after having proven himself to be a thug, was allowed out on the streets to victimize/murder Mr. Reiter. Of course, Mr. Paul has only been charged with the crime. He has not been proven guilty. Regardless, our system is totally messed up by allowing people who have a history of breaking the law be let off by

While we go through a day, we should remain encouraged and be not oblivious to the joys of life. Journeying through this world is a gift that has been given by God himself. Striving by faith to unravel his marvelous treasures is a precious gift in itself. To know God on a irst-name basis is the principle that we as his children must adhere to.

The glory of his being is saturated in our hearts and the victory within his spirit. As we walk and run towards the calling of the most high, we must be steadfast and unmovable. When we come to realize that the one who has a plan, purpose and a point of destination for us, it is then that we will begin to see the gift of life at its abundance.

Alicia Grace Dockett Via email

Special thanks

Many thanks to the students of Vianney High School who took the time recently to clean Washington Park Cemetery. I for one really appreciate it.

Craig Johnson St. Louis

Cell phone dangers

A panel of scientists within the World Health Organization issued a statement on May 31 suggesting that the radio frequency energy released by cell phones may increase risks for two types of rare cancers, placing cell phones in a “possibly carcinogenic to humans” category.

An excellent source of information on this matter is a recent book entitled Disconnect The author is Devra Davis, an expert on environmental health dangers. Her expose reveals how cell phone radiation damages the human body’s cells and breaks down the brain’s defenses, increasing the

risk of malignant tumors and neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s. Read and learn why and how to protect yourself and your family, especially children.

Olga Sibenaller St. Louis

Poor

Columnist Earl Ofari Hutchinson

Columnist Eugene Robinson

Gifted middle schoolers sample college life

Seven Hazelwood North Middle School seventh-grade students,including Alexzander Totton and Jared Orange (above),have been accepted into the Joseph Baldwin Academy for Eminent Young Scholars,or JBA,at Truman State University.The other students are Bryce Berry,TeVon Collins,Kel-Sei Dinkins,Quinten Eiland and Anthony Johnson.

They will spend three weeks on campus this summer as college “freshmen.”

Nominated by their counselor, these students rank in the 95th or above percentile of a national standardized achievement examination and successfully completed either the ACT or SAT test.

“I’m very excited to go, mainly to be around other students and to be in a different environment,”said Totton,who is interested in crime scene investigations.

“I want to work in computer programming,graphic design or animation or something to do with computers and robots,”said Orange.

Free summer meals in Normandy

Juneteenth Celebration in Fountain Park

The Normandy School District Food Service program will provide free breakfast and lunch during the summer for all children aged 18 or younger and eligible disabled adults over 18. Through June 30 meals will be served Monday through Friday at Lucas Crossing Elementary Complex, 7837 Natural Bridge and Normandy High School, 6701 St. Charles Rock Rd. Breakfast will be served from 8 to 8:30 a.m., and lunch will be served from 11:30 a.m. to noon at Lucas Crossing.At the high school, breakfast will be served from 7:25 to 7:45 a.m., and lunch will be served from 11 to 11:25 a.m. June 13 through July 1, breakfast will be served from 7:15 to 7:45 a.m. at Normandy Middle School, 7855 Natural Bridge. Contact the Normandy School District Food Service Department at 314-493-0180.

The Neighbors of Fountain Park, in collaboration with Centennial Church, will host its 5th Annual Juneteenth Community Awareness Celebration June 17-19 in Fountain Park.

Juneteenth is the oldest known celebration commemorating the ending of slavery in the United States.

Events Friday will be held 4-9 p.m., and events Saturday will be held 1-8 p.m. Sunday will feature a Father’s Day Tribute and Celebration. Centennial Christian Church will hold morning worship services in Fountain Park from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. There will also be a Gospel Explosion from 2:30-6:30 p.m. in the park.

The Fountain Park Neighborhood is located with Martin Luther King on the north, Delmar on the south, Walton on the east and Kingshighway on the west.

Contact Clint Potts, chairman of Neighbors of Fountain Park, at 314-443-4081 or cpottssped@yahoo.com.

The Oprah Effect

By Cheryl Pearson-McNeil NNPA Columnist

Oprah has left the building – at least the one where The Oprah Winfrey Show was taped. And we’re all aware she’s moved on to bigger things. As a matter of fact I just hung up from speaking with my mom who is already quoting psychologists from Oprah’s cable network OWN

At Nielsen, the world’s largest marketing research company, we measure what consumers watch and buy globally.And over the years we’ve followed Oprah a number of ways: from our ratings service, which measured her syndicated daytime show (watched by approximately 7.4 million people daily, or 26 percent of all American households during the first two weeks of May this year), to our Nielsen Bookscan service which has tracked the success of Oprah’s Book Club picks.

As a cultural and media icon, the woman had a powerful influence on some of America’s buying habits.CNN even produced a special about this phenomenon and the impact it had on driving success for a company or product, known as The Oprah Effect

Take Chicago-based Garrett Popcorn. According to CNN sales jumped by 100 percent after a December 2002 “Oprah’s Favorite Things” show.And, consider that Atlanta-based Spanx was almost unheard of until the founder appeared on Oprah and netted the company a subsequent $350 million in retail sales.

Any product that was good enough for Oprah was good enough for the rest of us – which explains why I have a stunningly beautiful pink and brown stripped chair in my guest room that doesn’t match anything in there, but I saw it in O, The Oprah Magazine and had to have it. Oprah has style and over the years it rubbed off on the rest of us.

Oprah even made reading cool again. Because of Oprah suddenly I had girlfriends who hadn’t picked up books since our freshman English Lit class calling me saying, “Giirrrl, did you read Oprah’s Book of the Month? Whew! It. Was. Deep. Honey!” Oprah’s Book Club choices translated into more than 22 million copies sold.

Oprah epitomizes using our consumer power for good. If we could sprinkle a little of her fairy empowerment dust throughout the land so that everyone understood the power of choices, there’d be no stopping the economic impact we could all have on the world.

Cheryl Pearson-McNeil is the senior vice president of Public Affairs and Government Relations for Nielsen. For more information and studies go to www.nielsenwire.com.

Cheryl PearsonMcNeil

American wins two 1st Place awards

Trade association awards paper for news photo, election coverage

American staff

The St. Louis American won four awards in Suburban Newspapers of America’s 2010 Editorial Contest, including two First Place awards. SNA represents more than 2,000 newspapers in the U.S. and Canada with more than 22 million in circulation.

The American placed First Place in its class – weekly member newspapers in North America (U.S. and Canada) with a circulation of 36,000 or more – in two categories, Best News Photo and Best Local Election Coverage.

Veteran photojournalist Wiley Price won First Place for his news photo of a shooting victim collapsed outside of a friend’s home on July 27, 2010.

The American news staff won First Place for its coverage of the November 2010 Midterm elections, reported by Rebecca S. Rivas and Chris King, shot by Price with page design by Mike Terhaar.

Staff of The American and The St. Louis American Foundation won Second Place for Community Service, recognizing the annual Salute series, innovated by publisher Donald M. Suggs, recognizing excellence in education, health care, business and young leaders, and awarding scholarships. This Second Place award was given for all classes combined, competing in a much larger field than the paper’s own class of weeklies. The American was beaten only by a daily paper in Kankakee, Ill.

The American also won Third Place in its class for Best Entertainment/Lifestyle Section, recognizing its Living It section, reported for the most part by Kenya Vaughn with page design by Melvin Moore.

NIXON

Continued from A1

Republican state Sen. Eric Schmitt, who sponsored the legislation in the Missouri Senate.

“It’s time for us to act,” he said, “to bring this thing home. It’s real. We are well positioned at this moment.” For legislators to act now, Gov. Jay Nixon would need to call a special session of the Legislature. Will he?

According to Scott Holste, the governor’s press secretary, special sessions should be reserved for significant issues of immediate importance.

“That’s the standard we will use in determining whether a special session would be appropriate on this or any issue,” Holste said.

The St. Louis Regional Chamber & Growth Association claims Aerotropolis is of “immediate importance.”

Mike Jones, chairman of the Midwest China Hub

Commission, said if the governor or Legislature does not force a special session, a year will be lost.

“The session starts in January, but nothing gets done until May,” Jones said. “That may as well be forever.”

The sense of urgency comes from the commission’s ongoing bargaining with China over a deal to bring major new cargo freight to St. Louis.

“We have unique opportunity, and not just because the world’s largest trading partner is at the table,” Schmitt said. “This is our offer sheet to the world.”

Other countries, including South Africa, have started making inquiries as well.

“We could miss out on a huge opportunity to increase our footprint globally and what domino effect an increasing global footprint would mean for our ability to export Missouri goods,” said state Rep. Tishaura Jones, assistant minority floor leader.

“The real question,” Mike Jones said, “is: how can we take that opportunity and

develop it into something transformational for the region and state?”

‘A new urban form’

To get a grasp of the Aerotropolis bill, it’s helpful to understand the term. John D. Kasarda, the director of the Kenan Institute of Private Enterprise at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, coined the term. Kasarda defined Aerotropolis as “a new type of urban form comprising aviation-intensive businesses and related enterprises extending as far as 60 miles from the inner clusters of hotel, offices, distribution and logistics facilities.”

Lambert into such a hub.

Breaking down the incentives in the Missouri bill, $60 million would go towards tax breaks on freight weight. This would encourage freight forwarders or “travel agents of air cargo” to move exports through St. Louis, rather than a busier freight airport like Chicago.

“The real question is:how can we take that opportunity and develop it into something transformational for the region and state?”

– Mike Jones

The Missouri legislation was crafted to offer tax incentives for development needed to turn the low-performing

Then over 15 years, $300 million would go towards building hub-related facilities, including warehouses and assembly plants. And $120 million would go towards paying interest on loans for the new construction.

The incentives would generate a minimum of nearly $22billion in net new economic output for the region and state over the 15-year term of the incentives, according to an economic impact analysis conducted by Biggins Lacy and Shapiro of Princeton, N.J. and Institute St. Onge, the York, PA-based international logistics advisory firm.

Mike Jones – who has held a wide range of policy posi-

tions in St. Louis city and county – has long argued that job creation and economic development in the AfricanAmerican community is much more likely when the overall regional economy is expanding.

“And in Aerotropolis, we are talking about construction, warehousing and assemblage jobs where African Americans will be able to compete for these jobs,” Mike Jones said.

Unseating Chicago

“Chicago is the incumbent, and this legislation is meant to unseat the incumbent,” Schmitt said.

Chicago’s airport hub is built out, with little room to expand, he said. Air cargo is growing fast, he said. And being the point of consolidation for goods would be prosperous for St. Louis.

Opponents say that Chicago O’Hare hosts international gateway operations for numerous Asian, European and Latin American passenger carriers, as well as the freighter operations for these airlines.

Proponents counter that tax breaks would bring more landings to Lambert, and more landings would enable the air-

port to decrease landing fees. This in turn would attract new passenger carriers, making St. Louis more competitive with cities like Chicago. Schmitt said historically St. Louis leaders have let many regional development opportunities go to other cities. St. Louis had the opportunity to become the region’s railway center for goods in the 1860s, but leaders hesitated and Chicago seized the chance. Legislators missed their chance during the session because of Republican infighting between the two houses.

“The House position on tax credits was not nearly as stringent in rolling back caps on tax credit programs,” said Tishaura Jones, explaining the failure of the economic development bill. Now some legislators want another chance. “I’m tired of reminiscing on the 1904 World’s Fair,” said Schmitt, who represents southeastern St. Louis County in the Legislature.

“Now is the time for leaders to be leaders. I think we can make a difference and really have an opportunity for job growth that we haven’t had for a while.”

Wiley Price’s photograph of shooting victim Sherman Carter (July 29,2010 edition of The American) won

First Place for Best News Photo in Suburban Newspapers of America’s 2010 Editorial Contest.

Photo by Wiley Price

KENNEDY

Continued from A1

the lesson he was teaching me. Sweeping the corners

When I was growing up, I would always ask my dad if he needed any help around the house. Every time we worked together, I would pick up a lesson. I was about 14 years old and we were cleaning the garage when my dad asked me to sweep the floor. After I put the broom up and started to move the items back into the garage, my dad asked, “Mike, are you done sweeping?”

I responded, “Yes, looks good, doesn’t it?”

He said, “What about the corners?” He then took the smaller broom and went around the entire edge of the garage.

My mouth dropped open. I felt like the Karate Kid when he realized he learned Karate from waxing cars. I realized that paying attention to the details is essential in life to have the big picture come out like you want it. You must solve every problem or start every task by thinking first and then executing the fundamentals at a higher level.

To this day, I ask myself

GILLESPIE

Continued from A1

institutions he had served –including his home church, Harris-Stowe State University and Mathews-Dickey Boys & Girls Club.

An emotionally overwhelmed Martin Mathews, cofounder of Mathews-Dickey Boys & Girls Club, fought back tears as he touched upon a friendship and partnership with Rev. Gillespie that spanned 55 years.

“As I look at all of you, we are not here to say goodbye to Rev. Gillespie, we are here to celebrate his life,” Mathews

when I think I’m done with a task, “Did I sweep the corners?”

Watching the big picture

It was Parents Week my freshman year at Hampton University. My mother and father decide to visit my calculus class, where I was was carrying a “C.” They wanted to check out what the problem was. After the teacher discussed a long-winded formula, my father asked, “What would you practically use this formula for?”

The teacher responded, “If you would like to measure crystal growth, you apply this formula.”

Then my father told me, “Get yourself a ‘C,’and get out of here.” My dad knew that measuring crystal growth wasn’t in the plan for me. If I spent all my time struggling to raise my grade in that class, then the classes I was excelling in could all suffer and I would lose sight of the big picture.

God and the canoe

How do you build a canoe? You cut down a tree and cut away everything that’s not a canoe. To become closer to God, you take a heart with the adoration for a living God and

said.

“Thank all of you for supporting a man with that courage. Let us celebrate the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Gillespie and hope we can see him again.”

The story of Rev. Gillespie arriving at a dilapidated church with a basement full of water and a sanctuary empty of parishioners has been told several times since his passing. He arrived in St. Louis in 1956 with no money, no members and no home.

“I know for real that Rev. Gillespie was a man of courage and determination because in 1956 he visited my home at 4672 Ashland and told me that he was going to be the

remove everything else.

As long as I can remember, I have seen my father removing everything that would keep him from getting closer to God. With the mantra “addition by subtraction,” I saw a great example of removing negative people and bad examples to help you grow.

When I first started working for my dad at KAI Design & Build in June 2000, it was overwhelming. I understood how much of a responsibility he had and wondered, “How did he deal with all of this?”

He said, “You become too busy to think about it. If you’re thinking about it too much, then you don’t have enough to do. If you’ve run out of things to do, then pray and ask God what you should be doing or ask Him to take care of it.”

Images of my father every morning before work shot into my head: him kneeling by his bed and praying before he left to take me to school. He was showing me then how you handle it. You pray.

Thank you, Dad, for all you have done for me. I’m proud of you and love you. I wouldn’t trade positions with anyone in the world, if I couldn’t take my family with me. My brothers and I are truly blessed to have you and Mom in our lives.

Happy Fathers Day!

pastor of Cote Brilliante and that he didn’t have members,” Mathews said.

The transition from that empty, abandoned church to the overflowing building of mourners was evident.

NAACP honors Tyrone Thompson

“What began as a solitary ministry grew to impact this community and the larger church for which he came to be recognized.”

– Rev.Craig Palmer

“As we know, what began as a solitary ministry grew to impact this community and the larger church for which he came to be recognized,” said the Rev. Craig Palmer, interim executive presbyter of the

Presbytery of GiddingsLovejoy, which administers Cote Brilliante.

“I want to offer recognition by this presbytery of Dr. Gillespie’s faith and preaching the word of God and his commitment to justice (especially in the area of racial equality), to education to and what the role of the church and the community can be.”

One of the many “fledgling” pastors Gillespie had

mentored was present to bear witness to the legacy of ministry he leaves behind.

“To encourage a fledgling pastor from California with stars in her eyes by saying to her, ‘My dear, you’re going to do great things for God’– that’s love to the utmost,” said the Rev. Dr. Mary NewbernWilliams.

She stood before the crowd as current pastor of the church Rev. Gillespie built.

“He came to love Cote Brilliante Presbyterian Church to the utmost, to love the St. Louis community to the utmost. He came to love Harris-Stowe State University to the utmost and to love Mathews-Dickey to the utmost,” Rev. NewbernWilliams said.

“Dr. Gillespie cherished his family. He walked this neighborhood, shook hands with anyone who would get in the way, and encouraged everyone with whom he came in contact. He lived his life as a servant who loved to the utmost. When one builds a ministry based on justice, mercy, service and with love for humankind. That’s love to the utmost. And that was Rev. Dr. William G. Gillespie.”

Kayla Thompson and Tyrell Thompson,children of the late Tyrone Thompson, spoke alongside their grandmother,former state Rep.Betty Thompson,at the St.Louis NAACP Freedom Fund Dinner held Friday at the Millennium Hotel.The local NAACP chapter,which recently combined the city and county branches, posthumously recognized Tyrone Thompson (who was killed in June 2010) for his work with youth.

Photo by Maurice Meredith

Attention St. Louis American Readers

As a service to the community, we list obituaries in the St. Louis American Newspaper, on a space-available basis and online at stlamerican.com AT NO CHARGE. Please send all obituary notices to kdaniel@stlamerican.com.

OBITUARIES

Bishop W.D. Adams

October 2, 1923—June 2, 2011

Bishop W.D. Adams was the tenth child born to the late Allen and Addie Whitelow Adams in Brownsville, Tennessee on October 2, 1923. His wife, Floye Adams; daughter, Thomastine Adams; four brothers and three sisters all preceded him in death.

Bishop Adams’ childhood was spent in Brownsville, Tennessee. He moved to St. Louis, Missouri in 1943 where he united with First Freewill Baptist Church and was baptized

by the late Reverend Edgar E. Warield. He later met and was united in Holy Matrimony with Floye Newborn. Bishop Adams was a humble man and he loved the word of God. He believed in the Doctrine of Jesus Christ and had a great appreciation for life and the people of God. He accepted the call on his life to enter into the ministry and

was licensed and ordained a Minister in 1957 by Reverend Warield while a member of First Freewill Baptist Church. He soon became the Pastor at Pilgrim Rest Freewill Baptist Church in February 1958 and was reassigned to Pastor of First Freewill Baptist Church in 1975. Bishop Adams was ordained as Bishop of the J.S. Manning Annual Conference in 1984, serving in that capacity for 15 years and later became General Bishop of the Western Division in 1988, serving for nine years. Bishop Adams served as pastor of First Freewill Baptist Church for thirty plus years; after which he remained as Pastor Emeritus until his transition from “labor to reward”. He leaves two daughters (Rev. Sonja McClendon and Joyce M. Adams-Wise), seven grandchildren and 17 greatgrandchildren, one brother, two sisters and a host of other relatives and numerable friends to cherish his legacy and the memories of a life well spent and a race well run.

Aggie Hamilton Mother of former alderperson Rose Grifin. Visitation will be Friday, June 17, 2011 from 10-11 am at St. Luke’s M.B.

Lillian Oleaver Butler

Lillian Oleaver Butler was born November 1, 1932 to Hugh Williams and Willie Mae Cloudy in Hermandale, MO. She was preceded in death by both parents; two brothers, William

Henry L. Nolan and to this union seven children were born, of which two children preceded her in death.

Lillian accepted Christ at an early age and attended Galilee Baptist Church until she met Rev. Ira F. Butler and joined Shiloh M.B. Church. This was a turning point in all our lives. There she sand in the choir and was involved in the Baptist Convention. The last few years of Lillian’s life were spent in nursing homes and hospitals due to many health challenges. Regardless of where she was, you could always ind her singing songs of praise and sometimes R&B. Singing was an area of freedom and deliverance for her.

Lillian is survived by a sister, Panzie Tyler; two brothers, C.H. Williams of Columbus, OH and James Smith; seven children, Charles Nolan, Sharon (Ronnie Sr.) Rutledge, Calvin L. (Doris) Nolan of California, Margaret L. (Gary) Aubry, Jonathan (Joyce) Henderson, Kim D. (Sam) Neal, Tony (Eloise) Butler; daughter-in-law, Twana Burrows-Henderson; 12 grandchildren and 16 greatgrandchildren. Special love and esteem for her sister-in-law and close friend Zenobia Taylor; the Butler family, who affectionately called her “Aunt Stuff”; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Bishop W.D. Adams

Aggie Hamilton

Ruthie Binion

Lillian Butler

How not to do it

It has not been a pleasant news cycle for state Sen. Robin Wright-Jones. On Sunday, right in the sweetest spot on its front page, the Post-Dispatch ran a report by Jake Wagman describing how the state senator’s campaign fund had dwindled from $96,000 to just $211 since last August, with no accounting on record for where the money went.

When her chief of staff John Bowman ired off a response accusing the Post of taking out a political hit on her, the daily paper came back on Tuesday with a stern editorial calling for a campaign ethics commission with teeth – presumably, to chew up politicians like WrightJones. In the meantime, those of us who watch the political game in this state are certain that other investigative entities with teeth are spending some quality time with her campaign reports, looking for evidence of wrongdoing. As former state Senator Jeff Smith, former state Representatives Steve Brown and T.D. El-Amin, and indeed Wright-Jones’ own chief of staff can testify, the U.S. Attorney’s Ofice in St. Louis relishes prosecuting people who make a living off the taxpayer’s dime.

The American did not endorse Wright-Jones for the state Senate, though she could be considered a friend of the paper. She is intelligent, has an independent mind and spirit, and has shown herself willing to take on some dificult political battles from which others retreated.

However, in this case, she is not doing herself, her friends or her constituents any favors. In fact, the EYE will take this incident as an object lesson –are you paying attention, young elected oficials and political

hopefuls? – in how not to do it.

Don’t lose track of your money – any of your money. If you are not able or willing to do your own inancial paperwork (or ind a replacement) when your campaign treasurer gets sick (Wright-Jones’ explanation for the missing accounting), then do not run for elected ofice. Even if the Missouri Ethics Commission is toothless, any proof of botched or absent campaign reports always makes for a good story and always will make you look bad in the media. If you have noticed, the Post-Dispatch seems to have more of an appetite for making black politicians look bad in print than white politicians, and if you happen to be a black politician, then that’s all the more reason to do your math and check it twice, accurately and on time.

One wrong ruins all the right. In Bowman’s rebuttal, Wright-Jones said during her seven years in the state House, she always did her own campaign reports, accurately and on time. So, why stop now, once she has reached a bigger stage, the state Senate?

Don’t celebrate at the Four Seasons unless you have Four Seasons-calibre inances. It’s likely that the Post stumbled upon this story, not because the paper wanted to take out a hit on Robin, but because she was sued over an unpaid $6,000 tab for her 60th birthday party at the Four Seasons. When your money business ends up in court, it lands on the desks of journalists. If you are a politican, they will run straight to your campaign inancial reports, salivating along the way. The Post reported that this case now has been settled, but not before it caused Wright-Jones a great deal of embarrasment.

Don’t expense your fancy shoes. “Wright-Jones lists in the May report $111 spent at Marmi, a shoe store at the Galleria Mall,” Wagman reported. If this needs any further explanation, then consult Sarah Palin

Don’t list a non-campaign expense as a non-campaign expense while claiming it oficially as a campaign expense

About those shoes again, Wagman noted, “In a description line in the campaign report, the expense is listed as ‘noncampaign.’” She then explained to Wagman, “After I did that, I thought, ‘Maybe I shouldn’t have done that,’” which was why she labeled the shoe expenditure as “non-campaign” on the campaign expense report.

Don’t try to explain too much to a journalist who clearly is not on your side. At what point did Wright-Jones realize this

story was not going her way?

Given what most black politicians think about Wagman and the Post, the instant he called her she had to be wary. So why did she talk to him and keep talking to him, going so far as to admit incriminating things?

About those “non-campaign” shoes again, in case the investigators reading his story did not igure this out for themselves, Wagman notes, “State law says campaign funds cannot be ‘converted to any personal use.’

A willful violation of that provision can result in a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to a year in jail.” Wagman seems ready to book her that room in jail personally. So why talk to him in such detail?

In Bowman’s rebuttal, WrightJones complains bitterly about being miquoted numerous times. The only way to be misquoted is to offer verbal quotes.

She could have kept quiet or had Bowman issue the written statement before, not after, the story ran.

Don’t claim as a campaign expense something you already have claimed as an ofice expense. Wagman sleuthed out “at least” three instances (journalists love to write “at least,” as if inciting investigators to keep looking for more) where Wright-Jones claimed ofice phone expenses as campaign expenses while also paying the same bills from Senate ofice funds. Leaving no embarrasing detail out of the story, Wagman adds that Wright-Jones got hit with an $8 late fee from AT&T and billed that to the Senate, though “Senate policy does not allow for the reimbursement of late fees.”

Quibbling after the fact does not help. Bowman’s rebuttal, for the most part, challenges

things in the story that don’t really matter. Here are two corrections Wright-Jones makes:

“In the bit about the phone payments, I told Jake it was an oversight and it was not intentional. He quotes me as saying ‘It’s an oversight, to a very large degree.’That’s not what I said, and his lack of fealty to the facts permeates his article. Even the very last quote in his story is wrong. I told Jake that

‘Our faith tells us to work toward better perfection because we are not perfect,’ but Jake adds ‘Even if we may not attain it,’ which, again, I never said.” It’s doubtful these misquotes make any difference to anyone other than Wright-Jones. When $96,000 disappears without any accounting, it’s obvious we are not going to attain “better perfection.”

With lawmakers standing near, Missouri Governor Jay Nixon told seniors about Missouri Rx, the state program that helps more than 212,000 low-income Missouri seniors and those with disabilities afford essential prescription medicine, during ceremonies in St. Louis on Friday. Established in 2006, when Medicare Part D took effect, Missouri Rx works with Part D plans to lower the out-of-pocket expenses eligible seniors and individuals with disabilities pay for prescription drugs. Photo by UPI/Bill Greenblatt

Recently, Deputy Fire Chief Charles Coyle received a jury ruling that the St. Louis Fire Department had in fact discriminated against him. A jury of six whites and six African Americans delivered the truth blow of what many in the Fire Department already knew. But just like the phenomenon of racial profiling had to be affirmed, first with a law and second with the collection of data, this is all part of a continuing struggle for equality and fairness.

Racism puts public safety at risk

The racial policies of the St. Louis Fire Department are well documented. At one point, the department was under a court-ordered quota system that required the recruitment classes to be half white and half black. This was supposed to raise the overall numbers of blacks that had been suppressed for years due to the white affirmative action policy in place for decades. There was nothing that would stand in the way of promoting white firefighters, including

cheating on the tests. Currently, white firefighters are being hired and promoted disproportionately to blacks – a guarantee to return to the good ole days for the good ole boys. Meanwhile, on the streets of St. Louis, the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department is still engaging in blatant racial profiling. The most recent data analysis showed that African Americans in Missouri were 61 percent more likely to be racially profiled than whites. As

the stats have shown for the past 11 years of data collection, in 2010 blacks were twice as likely to be searched than our white counterparts, even though we are less likely to have contraband.

Larry White, former chief of

the Ladue Police Department, alleges that he was fired when he refused to submit to city officials’ demand that he stop blacks and out-of-towners to meet ticket quotas. These incidents, along with the growing disparities, have continued without much intervention from the attorney general’s office or other officials.

The internal operations of the police department are not free of racial dynamics as they relate to hiring and promotions either. One can only imagine the tensions between the races, fanned up by self-serving brass that spew over into meaningful job relationships and performance. Deputy Fire Chief Coyle reported that since he filed his law suit, he has experienced intimidation by his peers and some of his duties were re-assigned. African-American police officers have experienced similar hostile working environments when they broke the “blue wall of silence.”

Chief Coyle’s law suit claimed he was next in line for promotion to fire chief once Mayor Francis G. Slay had ordered Charles Bryson to fire the city’s first AfricanAmerican Fire Chief Sherman George. Chief George was unceremoniously demoted by Bryson, the newly appointed head of Public Safety, allowing

interim fire chief Steve Kotraba to start the promotions from a list contested by Chief George. While interim chief, Kotraba appointed as many whites as possible. After his dirty work was done, Kotraba was replaced by Dennis Jenkerson (a battalion chief) instead of Coyle (deputy chief and fire marshal). But it seems like the City Charter is followed only when it preserves and advances white privilege and superiority. If the city was serious about this issue (especially in light of the court ruling), Mayor Slay would promote Deputy Fire Chief Coyle to his rightful position of fire chief. The passivity by the attorney general’s office, the heads of the fire and police departments and Mayor Slay are unacceptable. We are all concerned about public safety, particularly our own, but if all this drama is going on internally, we cannot expect that our public servants will be at their best. I urge all fair-minded citizens to call the offices of the attorney general, the police chief and the mayor of St. Louis to see what remedies they intend to put in place to bring about equity for city employees and unbiased public service to all citizens. As taxpayers, it is time for all of us to get more involved – the courts can only go so far.

Jamala Rogers

BUSINESS

Health care reform and minority businesses

How the Affordable Care Act benefits small

By Isabel Perera and Lesley Russell Center for American Progress

businesses and self-employed

Minority-owned businesses are 5.8 million strong, and growing. Generating over $1 trillion each year, they continue to build their presence across local communities and 41 countries worldwide.

Between 2002 and 2007, the growth of businesses owned by minorities outpaced the growth of nonminority-owned businesses. These entrepreneurs are important contributors to local markets, but they are also crucial to developing national economic competitiveness.

Of minority-owned enterprises, 1.6 million are owned by Asian Americans. Of those businesses with fewer than 100 employees, nearly 2.3 million are owned by Hispanic Americans and nearly 2 million are owned by African Americans. Nearly 2 million minority employers are women.

PEOPLEON THE MOVE

The diversity of minority employers is present in virtually every sector of private industry, yet many of them encounter similar disadvantages. As racial and ethnic minorities, these employers, employees, and their families experience significant health disparities, which are aggravated when they are unable to access affordable health care coverage. Many small employers are unable to access coverage for themselves or their employees. Because insurers consider these employers “small groups,” small businesses are not as likely as large groups (large employers) to spread risk.

Small businesses are often considered high-risk groups, so insurers charge them high costs. These high costs keep many small employers from offering health benefits, and when small business employees do obtain health coverage through their employers, they tend to have less

See REFORM, B2

Bob Fritz,a Clayco vice president;County Council members Mike O’Mara and Hazel Erby;Margaret Donnelly,director of the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services;St.Louis County Department of Health Director Dr.Delores

Nick Tharenos,Department of Health advisory board member;Berkeley Mayor

Nadal;and St.Louis County Executive Charlie A.Dooley broke ground last week on a new campus for the St.Louis County Department of Health in Berkeley.

By Sandra Jordan Of The St.Louis American

Construction is underway for the new St. Louis County Health Campus in North County. County, municipal and state officials, business leaders and supporters participated in a groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday, June 8 at 6065 Helen Ave. in Berkeley. The campus is being built by Clayco and Legacy Building Group with Forum Studio, following a competitive bid process. Bob Fritz, a Clayco vice president, helped to break ground. St. Louis County Executive Charlie A. Dooley said the county is “not just updating our health care center,” but the new facility is

“It is a truly unique way to approach the delivery of public health services that actually reflects on the 21st century.”

– St.Louis County Health Director Dr.Delores Gunn

“going to be our health headquarters as well.” Fritz said the new structure will be 93,000 square feet in total for health services and administration. It is scheduled for completion on August 6, 2012. John C. Murphy Health Center closed last fall and will be torn down. Medical services provided there were temporarily moved to North Central Community Health Center and South County Health Center during construction.

St. Louis County Department of Health Director Dr. Delores Gunn said this is the first new construction for a county health building in 50 years.

By James H.Buford For The St.Louis American

James H.

AmberSimpson has joined U.S. Bank’s Community Affairs Division as National Multicultural Markets manager. She is located in St. Louis and was transferred from the Global Trade Services Division, where she supported International Treasury Management sales, implementation and training for the Lower Midwest and Southeast regions.

Marcus Manning is now director of athletics at Maryville University. He will lead its 18 varsity athletic teams, student athletes and coaches as Maryville anticipates assuming membership in NCAADivision II and the Great Lakes Valley Conference. Manning was director of membership and legislative services for the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics.

Manning

Dr. Tifani I. Sanford graduated from Southern Illinois University School of Medicine.She will enter a family medicine residency at SIU School of Medicine and its affiliated hospitals in Springfield. Sanford is the daughter of Mark Sanford and Kathleen Foster, both of St. Louis. She is a graduate of Metro High School and Xavier University.

BUSINESS BRIEFS

NNPAchallenges Toyota

The National Newspaper Publishers’Association (NNPA) is currently at odds with carmaker Toyota Motor Sales USA, which allegedly backed out of a multi-million dollar advertising campaign targeted to Black consumers. Earlier this year, Toyota ran a series of full page ‘Thank you’ads to consumers, but they only ran in general market newspapers, not in the Black Press.

According to research from leading automotive marketing research firm R.L. Polk & Company, Black consumers represent almost 10 percent of Toyota’s American market share, and 15 out of every 100 Black consumers purchased a Toyota.

“I am not surprised at Toyota’s lack of commitment,” commented Walter Smith, publisher New York Beacon. “Toyota has a long history of insulting and ignoring African Americans. In 1985, the Prime Minister of Japan Yasuhiro Nakasone said that Japan was more intelligent than countries like the United States because they didn’t have a lot of Blacks, Puerto Ricans and Mexicans. He felt that ethnic minorities were low level and brought the intelligence quota down, an unforgiveable statemetn. So what Toyota is doing with the NNPAis of no surprise to me.”

NNPAchairman Danny Bakewell, Jr. feels that the Black Press has been shunned by Toyota. “Black people stood by Toyota during their time of crisis to the tune of $2.2 billion” said Bakewell. “Where is the thank you to Black consumers for their support and loyalty to Toyota?”

According to Bakewell, this is the second time recently that the Black Press was not included in a major print advertising buy. The other being Toyota’s response to a gas pedal defect.

Ben Jealous, president of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People said, “The NAACPsupports Chairman Bakewell and the NNPA. We hope Toyota will see the value in partnering with the Black Press every year. They are our most trusted publications.”

Entrepreneurial boot camp at UMSL

Along with the National Black MBAAssociationSt. Louis Chapter and Marks & Associates, IT Enterprises at the University of Missouri–St. Louis will sponsor the Entrepreneurial Boot Camp June 30 through Aug. 18. There are two opening workshops, which will be held at ITe, on June 30 and July 14. Both are free and open to the public and start with a reception at 5:30 p.m. with workshops running from 6:15 to 8 p.m. The boot camp is a comprehensive three-part program designed to help participants understand the market for starting a business, determine the type of business that best suits them and how to navigate a path to ensure success.

Email stlblackmba@charter.net to RSVPor for more information.

County loan program for energy-saving home improvements

St. Louis County has launched a new loan program for county residents that offers low interest rates for home improvements that save on energy costs. St. Louis County SAVES provides $10.4 million for residential energy efficiency loans ranging from $2,500 to $15,000. The initiative is one of the first in the nation to use a unique bond structure for green community programs. Residents are able to enjoy unusually low rates due to the County’s strong AAAbond rating. For more details, visit www.StLouisCountySaves.com.

Amber Simpson

Marcus

Gunn;

Kyra Watson:state Senator Maria Chappelle-

Buford

Dr.Tifani I.Sanford

Isabel Perera

Lesley Russell

Photo by Wiley Price

Mutual fund transactions can be complicated, especially with the fees and expenses that accompany the process. It’s important to understand mutual fund load, or sales,charges, and exactly what they entail so you can make informed investing decisions.

A“load” is a fee charged to an investor who buys or redeems shares in a mutual fund. It is similar to the commission that investors pay when they purchase a stock. There are two general types of sales loads. If a sales load is required at purchase, it is called a “front-end” sales load; if it is charged when shares are redeemed, it is a deferred or

REFORM

Continued from B1

generous plans than employees at large businesses. In 2010, 99 percent of large employers offered health benefits, but only 76 percent of employers with 10 to 24 employees offered coverage. What’s more, only 59 percent of microbusinesses (with 3 to 10 employees) offered coverage. Minority employees of small businesses also have much to gain from the Affordable Care Act. Currently, almost one-third of the uninsured (13 million people) are employees of small businesses. The situation is worse for racial- and ethnicminority Americans. The new law responds to small employers’desire to develop their competitive edge and obtain affordable health care coverage for themselves and for their employees by offering tax credits to participate in the state-based health insurance exchanges. This ben-

What is a mutual fund load?

“back-end” sales charge.” The most common type of backend sales load is a “contingent deferred sales charge” or CDSC. The amount will depend on how long an investor held the shares, and it could be nothing if they were held long enough. Loads generally compensate brokers and/or salespeople for selling you a fund. For example, it might help compensate a financial professional who spends time with you at the beginning of your relationship, learning about your objectives and helping with your investment program. Brokers might also continually keep in touch with you and answer any ques-

efit is already in place. Small employers know that offering health coverage helps the bottom line. Businesses with health care coverage are more competitive; this added benefit helps recruit top employees, retain successful ones, and increase the firm’s productivity. Currently, small businesses are eligible for a tax credit of up to 35 percent (25 percent for nonprofits). This credit helps lower the cost of insurance for struggling small businesses, as it is directed at businesses with fewer than 25 employees and average annual wages below $50,000. The tax credit for these businesses is even more generous in 2014. It will go up to 50 percent (up to 35 percent for nonprofits). These credits will significantly offset the cost of health insurance for these groups.

By Charles Ross PERSONAL FINANCE

tions you have. This communication can be particularly handy for busy people whose idea of investment tracking amounts to little more than an occasional call to their financial professionals.

Funds without load fees are called “noload funds.” These funds are distributed directly by the investment company and therefore do not

Charles Ross

need to charge for brokerage services. Despite this, all funds, even those with load charges, also have management and expense fees. Management fees pay for the administration of the fund and are usually based on a percentage of the fund’s assets. There are also 12b-1 fees, or distribution fees, that compensate brokers and other sellers

of mutual funds for advertising and marketing costs. These fees are typically a very small percentage of the fund’s assets, often less than a half percent.

Funds that charge loads may have lower 12b-1 fees and administration fees, so when you are deciding which type of mutual fund to purchase, it is important to review all the costs and fees involved to see which fundsmay work best for your investment purposes.

Fees and expenses vary from one fund to the next. When assessing different mutual funds, a fund with higher fees and expenses would needto generate higher returns than another fund with lower fees as higher fees can loweryour returns. Mutual fund share prices fluctuate with market conditions. Shares, when sold, may be worth more or less than their original

Currently, almost one-third of the uninsured (13 million people) are employees of small businesses.

employers can also look forward to the exchanges, which will also be implemented in 2014. Businesses with fewer than 100 employees can shop from a menu of insurance options in the exchange. Each option will meet a set of cost and benefit criteria. Providing affordable coverage options is a key goal, so these new marketplaces will pool the risk of participating individuals and businesses, which in turn will lower the overall cost of insurance.

Thanks to the employer tax credit and the low-cost exchange plans, self-employed individuals are expected to obtain coverage at near-universal rates.

Many racial and ethnic minority business owners are self-employed. Currently, selfemployed workers comprise 78 percent of small employers.

Racial and ethnic minority

Health care reform promotes quality coverage for

these workers. Right now, if they are unable to obtain coverage because of a preexisting condition, they can choose to join a high-risk insurance pool, which is available in every state. In 2014, self-employed individuals will also be eligible to shop for health care coverage in the exchanges and receive a tax credit for doing so.

Racial and ethnic minorities are currently less likely to have access to employersponsored insurance than non-Hispanic whites, so they will benefit substantially from the new exchanges. This support system will make insurance more affordable for the individual, and it will accordingly lower costs for his or her business. These provisions reduce the burden of health care costs on minority self-employed individuals, and it thus incorporates underserved racial and ethnic groups into a more robust health care system. The health care reform law is a landmark opportunity to close the disparities gap.

JOBS ACT

Continued from B1

the housing boom has caused a reshuffling of jobs among businesses, occupations, industries and geographic areas. These developments suggest that future gains in employment will rely more on the creation of new jobs in different businesses, industries and locations. As a result, the movement of unemployed workers into new jobs will be more difficult in this recovery than in previous years. Recently displaced workers will have to go through the process of learning new skills in order to apply for the jobs which are available. While the results of the Recovery Act have been promising, it is imperative for the Department of Labor to contin-

Our nation’s unemployment rate stands at 9.1 percent, with an AfricanAmerican unemployment rate of 16.2 percent.

ue focusing on preparing America’s workforce for the permanent structural changes of the new economy. The new economy is knowledgedependent, global, entrepreneurial, innovative and rooted in informational technology. A long-term expansion of job training will be needed to advance the skill sets of the American workforce to the permanent shift in economic conditions. As a result, the National Urban League introduced its 12-point Urban Jobs Rebuild America Plan. Its measures include: restoring the Summer Youth Jobs Program as a stand-alone program; creating 100 Urban Jobs Academies to provide job training to at-risk youth and young adults; developing a National PublicPrivate Jobs Initiative to create jobs and train urban residents to stimulate economic growth; boosting minority participation in information and communication technology; reforming, revising and reauthorizing the Workforce Investment Act to focus on preparing and retraining workers for 21st century jobs; creating Green Empowerment Zones in areas where at least 50 percent of the population has an unemployment rate that is higher than the state average; expanding small business lending; enacting the Urban Jobs Act to address the problem of unemployed youth; and creating an Urban Homesteading Program. The Urban Jobs Act, sponsored by U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and U.S. Rep. Edolphus Towns, both Democrats from New York, will provide federal grant funding to non-profit organizations to offer job training, education and other support services for urban youth and young adults. It seeks to address the problem of unemployment for individuals aged 18 to 24 who are living in urban areas, are not enrolled in secondary or post-secondary school, and have been subject to the criminal justice process. This bill will provide adequate resources for nonprofit organizations to reduce the disproportionate incarceration of minority youth and to prepare eligible young adults for the workforce.

I strongly encourage everyone to get involved in this effort to support the Urban Jobs Act in order to further stimulate the economy by creating jobs. Now is the time for us to act.

“The Greater Man upstairs knows when it’s my time.Now isn’t the time.”

Mavs Beat the Heat

Better team wins as Dallas nabs first title

The Dallas Mavericks epitomized the word “team” in dispatching the star-studded Miami Heat in six games to win their first National Basketball Association world title. The Mavs rode the talents of their superstar forward Dirk Nowitzki and a veteran cast of support players who were hungry for their first ring. The Mavs had nine players on their roster with at least 10 years of NBA experience, including future Hall of Famers Jason Kidd (17th season) and Nowitzki (13th season).

As the series wore on, it was clearly evident that the Heat could not guard Dallas. The Mavs’spacing was excellent, the ball movement was impeccable and everyone started to make shots. What began as a tight, defensive-minded

INSIDE SPORTS

series suddenly became a shootout in the last two games. When that happened, Miami was toast. Dallas had too many shooters.

It was also a very valuable lesson for the Heat.

With Earl Austin Jr.

Before you have a championship celebration (as they did back in July when the Big 3 of LeBron, D-Wade and Bosh were signed), make sure you win the championship first. This series reminded me of the 1977 NBAFinals when the teamoriented Portland Trailblazers, led

by Bill Walton, defeated the star-studded Philadelphia 76ers in six games in a shocking upset. The 76ers were led by Julius Erving, George McGinnis and a host of talented players, but they wilted under the onslaught of back-door cuts and team basketball by Portland.

The Mavs had nine players on their roster with at least 10 years of NBA experience, including future Hall of Famers Kidd and Nowitzki.

With Maurice Scott

Neal commits to OU

DeSmet High football standout Durron Neal gave a verbal commitment to attend Oklahoma

In winning their first NBAtitle, the Mavericks also debunked a few myths: You can win a title with a white superstar (Nowitzki), an itty-bitty point guard (J.J. Barea), a miniature shooting guard (Jason Terry) and a zone defense.

The “First to Fight”charity show,featuring local police and firefighters squaring off against members of the U.S.Marines,will be held at Scottrade Center on Monday,June 20.Above,Wellston police officer Ronald Freeman,left,spars with Mike Mueller.

Guns, hoses n’grunts

STLfirst responders take ring against U.S. Marines

By Glenn McBrady

For The St.Louis American

The annual Guns n’Hoses boxing event has become a traditional part of the holidays for local first responders and their families. When Marine Week in St. Louis kicks off on Monday, June 20, the Scottrade Center will host the “First to Fight” amateur boxing tournament.

Instead of facing each other for bragging rights, local police and firefighters will square off against members of the U.S. Marines on a card that will include several unique touches.

I visited the St. Louis County Police and Fire Training Center recently to check in on some of the fighters as they trained for their tests. The main event will feature Officer Ronald Freeman from Pagedale against Micah Bagby, a Marine formerly based at Camp Lejeune. The former member of the 2nd Battallion, 8th Infantry Unit told me how excited he is to

make his boxing debut.

Bagby said, “I’ve always wanted to represent the Marines in an athletic way. I used to see the boxing team at my base. It’s an honor and it feels like a dream come true. When my trainer told me about the event, there was no doubt I’d be a part of it.”

Proceeds from the evening will go to the Backstoppers and the Semper Fi Society, an organization that assists injured Marines and their families.

Another man making his first ring appearance will be Antonio Valentine, a member of St. Louis County’s special Metrolink Unit. He told me that his athletic experience up until now included spots on the wrestling teams at Beaumont High School and Lindenwood University.

“It’s for a good cause,” he said. “I was in the Army, and it’s always good to support the armed forces.”

Proceeds from the evening will go to the Backstoppers and the Semper Fi Society, an organization that assists injured Marines and their families. The night will begin with an Olympic style ceremony including a procession of generals, a gift exchange and a presentation of the colors with bagpipers. Aspecial female bout on the card will include a pair of local first responders who can’t wait until autumn to face each other.

Two of the key organizers are promoter Steve Holley and tournament director Jack Martorelli, both long-time fixtures in St. Louis’boxing scene and driving forces behind Guns n’Hoses.

Steve Holley told me, “St. Louis once again has the opportunity to have a showcase boxing

Devon faces knockout artist

Alexander vs. Matthysse June 25 at Family Arena

Devon Alexander “The Great” is the crown jewel of boxing here in St. Louis. His story of doing the right things and persevering in a tough environment while not being the most talented man in the gym is the stuff of legend. Devon represents the good, and not all the things that some make excuses about, like wearing pants down their butts, not respecting the elderly or life in general, wanting to be a menace to society that some young men idolize.

I watched Devon talk about these same traits during a visit at Northwest Academy here in St. Louis. He was talking to teens about peer pressure and striving to be great at whatever you choose to do.

He was reminding these teens to surround themselves with good, positive people, and work hard and not to give up on dreams and goals.

“I’m just like you,” Alexander told a silent yet observant group that wanted to hear what this positive young brother had to say.

event where the whole community benefits and folks have a great time. Prices are right, the fighters will be ready and the leather will fly – all for charity.” Jack Martorelli added, “This is Guns n’Hoses with an added attraction: the United States Marines, the ‘First to Fight’guys taking on St. Louis’finest first responders. And the best part is that all proceeds go to the Backstoppers andtheSemper Fi organization assisting wounded and handicapped Marines. Get a group together and come on down to support these great charities.”

Reserved seats for the “First to Fight” charity show at Scottrade Center are priced at $20, with ringside tables of ten available for $500. Tickets and more information are available by calling 314-495-0820 or 314540-7306.

Alexander told the teenagers after adversity hits you, or if something doesn’t go right, “don’t be afraid too stand up to the challenge.”

Alexander returns home for redemption to fight Lucas Matthysse, one of the biggest knockout artists in

That’s exactly what Alexander will be doing when he returns home for redemption to fight Lucas Matthysse, one of the biggest knockout artists in boxing. People talk about Khan, Bradley and others in the 140 lb. division, but Matthysse is the hardest puncher of them all, bar none!

They will square off Saturday, June 25 at the Family Arena in St. Charles. Matthysse put Zab Judah on his butt a few months ago in a slugfest, and he will be looking to take Devon out as well.

The Argentine boxer is one of the best, and HBO knows it has a good one with Alexander on the main event. And give Alexander credit for taking this fight after suffering his first loss to Timothy “Fat Head” Bradley back in the winter. This will not be an easy fight for the former world champion.

“This fight is going to be a harder fight than the Bradley fight,” said trainer Kevin “KC” Cunningham.

“But Devon is up for the challenge, we will be ready. If you want to be the best, you have to fight the best, and that’s what Devon does.”

Earl Austin Jr.

– LeBron James

Former light welterweight champion Devon Alexander will face Lucas Matthysse of Argentina Saturday,June 25 at the Family Arena in St.Charles.

boxing.

Maurice Scott

See INSIDE, B5

Photo by Wiley Price

CLAIB’S CALL

By Mike Claiborne

The LeBron monster

Mike Claiborne

Yes, it’s time to pile on LeBron James again. James had been the focal point of the NBAFinals as he and his teammates could not beat the Dallas Mavericks, the closest thing to America’s team although their best player is German. James could not live up to the hype and produce when it counted. He went on to say life will still be all good for him even though they lost.

He has been vilified by the very group that glorified this guy starting in high school. Who, you ask? Yep, the media.

Amedia that will now say “not me,” “never said that” and all the cop-out lines that come about when the heat is on them. No, the media is never to blame, they just cover the story. Yeah, right. Who would have heard of LeBron James before ESPN decided to put his high school games on TV? Who at ESPN said no when Lebron decided to tell the world of his “Decision” on live TV? What writer or TVanchor said “no thank you” when it came to interviewing James and tell us

LeBron could stand down a bit and let the media find another monster they can build and help destroy.

all we wanted to know about a guy who never went to high school and was overwhelmed at times by all the attention? Enter the monster we know as LeBron James. LeBron James is not innocent in this, as he has made some big mistakes along the way, some of which he has admitted. But he is a creation of the “instant information, don’t care if it’s accurate, let’s get into his personal life, gotcha!” society we live in. He was scooped up at the age of 15 and has never had a chance to deal with it. There was no mentor. There

was no aging vet or coach who pointed him in the right direction.

Instead, he had to learn on the fly. He learned from family and friends who had a financial stake, teammates who wanted to chum up, and a league that had no control as long as they could sell more LeBron merchandise.

One thing I will agree with James on. He’s gonna be all right, and the haters will still have the same troubles in their lives. Sometimes the truth hurts, but in this case there is enough to go around. Should he have said it? Why not? The media wants to hear everything else James says, so why not this, as he is talking about some who cover him.

Now that there is a let down, LeBron has had to fend for himself. As for the media that created the monster that many have come to hate, they now have turned their back. Scottie Pippen comparing LeBron to Michael was just one of many issues the media could have slowed down, but this is what happens when you only have one game to cover and you find the obscure or make it up. Making it up is the easiest to do.

James should have a moratorium on the media, just take some time away as there is already too much information circulating about him anyway. Do we need another sitdown interview to hear what is on his mind? James no longer needs the exposure. He has made enough money where he can take care of his posse and family. He could stand down a bit and let the media find another monster they can build and help destroy.

Miami’s LeBron James

Jr. All-Stars have big season

INSIDE

Continued from B3 University. Neal is ranked among the top senior football players in the country by virtually all of the national recruiting services. The 6’1” 195pound Neal played a multitude of positions for the Spartans last season, including quarterback, running back, receiver, defensive back and kick returner. He accounted for 31 touchdowns in leading DeSmet to the Class 6 semifinals as a junior. The University of Missouri got verbal commitments from area standouts Donavin Newsom of Parkway North and Michael Scherer of MICDS. Newsom is a 6’2” 220-pound linebacker while Scherer is a 6’3” 240-pound linebacker. MO

burns up New Mexico

Agroup of athletes from Missouri put on a show at the recent Great Southwest Track and Field Classic in Albuquerque, N.M. The area athletes competed for Team Missouri at this all-star meet.

Tianna Valentine (Hazelwood East) won the 100-meter dash in 11.48 seconds. Peyton Cheney (Nerinx Hall) won the 200 while Samantha Levin (Ladue) won the 800-meter run. Team Missouri’s relay teams were dynamite in setting meet records. The 4x100 team of Valentine, Chaney, Shawntanay Johnson (Fox) and Ayesha Ewing (Cardinal Ritter) circled the track in a winning time of 44.79. The first-place 4x200 team of Valentine, Chaney, Ewing and

Asia Thomas (Cape Girardeau Central) posted a sizzling time of 1 minute 35.38 seconds. The 4x400 relay crew of Thomas, Levin, Montenae Roye-Speight (Ladue) and Kendra White (McCluer North) burned up the track in a record time of 3:37.65.

Baseball on show

Area baseball standouts

Lance Jeffries (McCluer), Darrin Pitts (Cardinal Ritter) and Juan Bowers (Trinity) have been selected to play in the PNC High School Baseball Showcase, which will be held on Monday, June 20 at Busch Stadium. All three players will be playing on the Missouri AllStar team that will face a team of Illinois All-Stars. The game will begin at 1:15 p.m. Admission is free.

(You can follow Earl Austin Jr. on his basketball website, www.earlaustinjr.com. You can also follow Earl on Facebook and at twitter.com/earlaustinjr.

The Jr.All-Stars compiled an impressive 27-3 record while winning two tournaments during the season.The All-Stars also finished in first place in the Jennings Warriors League.The team members are:(back row,left to right),Courtney Pittman (coach),Beau Miller,Nicholas Smith,Julius Erby,Chris Pittman,Eric Jones (head coach).(Front row,left to right) A.J.McCreight,Devyn Jones,Derrick Rivers,Tyson Ludwig,Justin Smith.

Margaret Donnelly, director of the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, sounded the same theme.

The project is backed by federal stimulus dollars, and last June the County Council approved up to $21 million in bonds for it. Gunn said the new public health center would meet “the needs of the community” in a broad sense, providing access to birth certificates, vital records, health information and reports on restaurant inspections, as well as health care services.

“It is a truly unique way to approach the delivery of public health services that actually reflects on the 21st century,” Gunn said. Dooley and Gunn thanked supporters from the community and elected leadership in all levels of government who collaborated to make the project happen.

“I also think it’s important to point out that we always talk about a federal, state and local partnership, and this building is being assisted in part by federal funds,” Donnelly said.

Gunn said the facility will be “cutting-edge,” including in its energy use. She said it will be a LEED-certified silver building.

LEED, the acronym for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is an internationally-recognized building certification system that assesses environmental performance for site sustainability, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources and indoor environmental quality.

“We wanted to make sure that this building was sustainable, was part of the communi-

ty,” Gunn said.

County Council members Hazel Erby and Mike O’Mara attended, along with state Senator Maria ChappelleNadal and Berkeley Mayor Kyra Watson.

Watson said the health campus will bring about 300 county employees from other sites into Berkeley for work.

“All of them will be brought together under one roof and, of course, if you have more people working here, they are more apt to spend money in your city, so we will get a slight increase in revenue,” Watson said.

In the 2010 Census, Berkeley had just under 9,000 residents, a population loss of about 1,000 since 2000.

Watson said, “We’ll have more traffic, and I am hoping from this, the people will actually see what Berkeley is all about and all the good things that are going on here.”

Financial Focus

By Marvin Mitchell, financial advisor

A look inside the new St.Louis County Health Campus in North County.

Wedding bells and business boosts

Clay Cahill (cousin) celebrated with Stephens College graduate Ms. Randi Cahill. Randi is the granddaughter of Mrs. Thelma Cahill and the late Honoable Clyde S. Cahill Jr.

Good news and vibes from STL spread to Motown and Vegas

By Dana Grace

For The St. Louis American

Dana Grace

Wedding bells chimed for Brittani Marcell McClure (Jewels Inc. CEO) and former St. Louis Rams wide receiver Brandon Michael Williams (Quigless Innovations and Team BMW) on May 7, 2011. The couple married in a private ceremony held at Mama Doc Elinor Hancock’s home in North County. The exclusive but stylish affair was coordinated by sister Farrell McClure (Milestones, an Event and Design company). Farrell recently returned to St. Louis from Los Angeles where she worked as an account manager for SAG (Screen Actors Guild). Brandon and Brittani plan to live in St. Louis. Blessings to this adorable and multitalented couple! Barrister Randall Cahill is still celebrating daughter Randi’s graduation from Stephens College last month. The well respected Cahill family celebrated in Columbia and later in St. Louis while graduate Randi Cahill enjoyed the well-deserved attention. Randi is the Grand-daughter of Mrs. Thelma Cahill and the late Honorable Clyde S. Cahill Jr. A life-long advocate of education, especially in

See POTPOURRI, C4

By Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American

“What would you do if you were given ive minutes with the man or woman of your dreams?”

You must know that I’m not asking this for no reason, right? Anyway, a conversation about celebrity crushes turned into an extreme

Exclusive interview with Philip Bailey of Earth, Wind and Fire

By Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American

“When you think of 40 years, you can’t fathom it,” said singer Philip Bailey. “My oldest son is actually turning 40 in September, and I remember very distinctly that he was just born when I got into Earth, Wind and Fire.”

Back then when he was bouncing his baby boy on his lap, Bailey had no idea what to expect when he joined the band. He only knew he was aligned with the band’s mission of making music that inspires, uplifts and encourages while celebrating the diverse beauty of the art form.

With the elemental power suggested by the band name, Earth, Wind and Fire swept through the music industry and forever changed popular music as some of the best and brightest musicians of their time teamed up and made history.

Like a proud father, Bailey doted on his beloved brotherhood and the musical partnerships

that transcended genres and will inspire generations to come.

“It was not anything that we could have imagined. We were just focused on trying to remain true to our passion of music and trying to do it with excellence – as we are now,” Bailey said.

“And we’re just really blessed that it has moved so many people worldwide for so many years and is still doing so and that we’re still out there performing and traveling on the level that we’re on. It’s a great feeling.”

Deep STL love

As they honor their landmark 40th year of making music, EWF returns to the road and will invite St. Louis to their special anniversary celebration tour this Saturday.

St. Louis has a special signiicance to the band in more ways than one.

lex of bravado and assurance from a male friend of mine.

“Vaughn, if I ever met Halle Berry in a hotel or something, it’s going down – and my lady will just have to understand.”

“Really?”

He didn’t have to tell me what “it’s going down” meant.

I’m thinking it would more than likely end with him “under the rest” (my toddler nephew’s interpretation for “under arrest”), but I was quietly thrilled by his gumption.

I’m going somewhere with this … just hold tight. I shouted out “Idris Elba!” but conveniently left out that I actually had shared an elevator with him during a trip to New York. Our fateful meeting ended up with me being overwhelmed by his chocolate goodness

“Most people my age would know the deep musical history of St. Louis and all of the jazz greats that have come out of that area,” Bailey said. “And the deep love that people have for music and great musicians. People from St. Louis are able to appreciate music from a whole different level, and it’s always a great experience for us to perform there.”

Part of that rich St. Louis musical history intersects with EWF’s. The angelic irst tenor tone of St. Louis’ own Donny Hathaway was the featured vocalist on the EWF demo tapes shopped to record labels that landed the band a deal with Warner Brothers after it was co-founded by Verdine and Maurice White in Chicago in 1969. Few vocalists can match the lasting impression Hathaway leaves on listeners, but Bailey rose to the challenge with his falsetto. High notes and improvisation on EWF classics such as “Devo-

and just burying my face to one side of the wall.

Celebrities are one thing. What about in real life? Have you ever had a guy (or girl) that you’ve admired from afar forever and just thought if the universe presented you with the opportunity to share his space, you are certain you would end up down the aisle together?

In the never-ending sitcom that is my life, I was afforded the opportunity – and it was a ratings lop! There is this beautiful man I’ve been admiring from afar forever. Thanks to the tragically hilarious twists of fate that make up my existence, we were at this speed dating event together at the same time and ended up on an insta-date.

I must offer full disclosure that the ulterior motive of me attending was for Black & Single material – okay, the sole purpose. So, when I saw him, I was glad that I wore a dress that made my mufin top look more like a baguette!

So, after getting my arm yanked into attending, this wonderful, intel-

Earth, Wind and Fire will perform at the Fox Theatre on Saturday, June 18. See EWF, C4

How to place a calendar listing

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

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

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

concerts

Fri., Jun. 17, 8 p.m., R. Kelly with special guests Keyshia Cole and Marsha Ambrosius, The Chaifetz Arena. For more information, call (314) 5341111.

Sat., Jun. 18, 8 p.m., Earth, Wind and Fire, The Fox Theatre. For more information, visit www.metrotix.com or call (314) 534-1111.

Sun., Jun. 19, 2:30 p.m., Missouri History Museum presents theirSecond Sunday Celebration with Oleta Adams, Missouri History Museum, Lindell and DeBaliviere in Forest Park. For more information, call (314) 361-9017 or visit www.mohistory.org.

Jul., 2, 7 p.m., JeKade Entertainment presents Bobby Womack featuring Latimore, The Ambassador, 9800 Halls Ferry. For more information, call (314) 5341111.

Sun., July 17, 7p.m. (doors open 6p.m.) Lexus Len Productions presents THE BACKWITH AVENGENCE TOUR featuring George Clinton & Parliament/ Funkadelic, The Ambassador, 9800 Halls Ferry Rd. Call The (314) 869-9090or Metrotix (314)534-1111 (metortix.com).

July 28, Sade with special guest John Legend, Scottrade Center. Tickets on sale April 16. For more information visit www.ticketmaster.com

Jul., 29, C.R. Lee ministries present Tye Tribbett live in concert, Faith Church St. Louis 3590 Rider Trial South Earth City, MO 63045. Tickets can be purchased at Transformation Christian Bookstore, WORD Christian Bookstore or by calling 314 322-9468 or 314 398-3405.

Sat., Sept. 17, (Tickets on sale Mon., Jun. 6 at 10 a.m.),

Yo Gabba Gabba, The Fox Theatre. For more information, call (314) 534-1111 or visit www.metrotix.com

local gigs

St. Louis’own StarCity recording artist Fred Walker performs his (one man)SAXY JAZZ music show at the all new SHRIMPSHACK GRILL , Every Friday (happy hour) 3pm – 7pm, and Saturday (brunch) 10am – 2pm. 8624 Natural Bridge Rd (at Hanley) 314-426-3333.

Funkin Right, Every 2nd

Saturday, Nappy DJ Needles invites you downtown for a monthly dose of good vibes delivered in the form of raw soul, afro beat, house, hip hop and deep funk. Lola, 500 N. 14th St.

Karaoke with Ric Louis THURSDAYS, 8pm at St. Louis’Happy Hour Bar & Grill, 12948 New Halls Ferry at Parker Road (Next to Save-A-Lot Supermarket). Wednesday s, 9pm at Ace`s Lounge, in the Comfort Inn Airport Hotel, 9600 Natural Bridge Rd. at Brown Rd. (Across from Church’s Chicken). Come and enjoy Drink Specials, Food Specials, Super Music Videos, Free Prizes and Great Fun !! (314) 608-2424.

Pieces of the Family featuring Marvin (Hit Man) Rice Fridays 8 p.m., Klub Klymaxx (inside The Ambassador), 9800 Halls Ferry Rd. Call (314)8699090.

Sensational Sundays, 6:30 p.m. (6 p.m. doors) Jazz @ Eventide, featuring Black and White Trio. Sip N Savor, 286 DeBaliviere, 1/2 block north of the Forest park Metro link. For more information, call (314)361-2116.

Steppin & Boppin, 6 p.m. Wednesdays, Legacy Café, 5249 Delmar.Lessons available.

CALENDAR

special events

Fri., Jun. 17 – Sun., Jun. 19, The Neighbors of Fountain Park, in collaboration with Centennial Church, will host its Fifth Annual Juneteenth Community Awareness Celebration in Fountain Park. The mission, as Neighbors of Fountain Park, is to empower, educate and connect the community to resources.For more information, call (314) 4434081.

Sun., Jun. 19, 3 p.m. (2 p.m.), Brotherly Love West Father’s Day Extravaganza, Marriot Airport Hotel. For more information, call (314) 495-1996 or (314) 382-7444.

Thurs., Jun. 23, 11 a.m., The Community Action Agency of St. Louis County, Inc. (CAASTLC) is preparing to host its SummerJob and Resource Fair and invites job seekers 18 and older to attend. Overland Community Center (9225 Lackland Road, 63114). Employers will be recruiting for openings in hospitality, sales, education, customer

service, labor, nursing, clerical, nonprofit, and more. MO Career Center, Anthem College, St. Lukes, Harrah’s, AARP, ITTTech, Primerica, Scholar shop and BarnesJewish are among the employers participating. For more information Contact James Ingram at; (314) 446-4431.

Sat., Jun. 25, 12 noon, Comedy, Wine, Beer& Blues Day Tour, Must be at least 25 or older to attend. Call 314219-4188 for info or register online at www.dayatthewinery.eventbrite.com

Sat., Jun. 25 – Sun., Jun. 26, Hispanic Festival, Inc. of GreaterSt. Louis will be presenting Fiesta in Florissant, the Knights of Columbus Park located in Florissant near the corner of Lindbergh and Washington St. For more information contact Hispanic Festival, Inc. at (314) 8376100.

Sat., Jun. 25, Don King Promotions presents Show Me Something Great featuring Devon Alexandervs. Lucas Matthysse, St. Charles Family Arena. For more information, call (314) 534-1111.

Sun., Jun. 26 – Sun., Aug. 28, 6 p.m., Ivory Perry Park concert Series featuring Trench Town Rock ( June 26th ), Charles Glenn (July 24) and Tony Simmons (August 28). For more information, visit the web site at www.ivoryperrypark.com or call Archilla Buford at 314-367-2112.

Sat., Jul. 9, 10:45 a.m., The dance and music styles of eight different cultures will be on display at a multicultural review at the Daniel Boone Branch of St. Louis County Library. The Daniel Boone Branch, 300 Clarkson Rd., Ellisville, MO 63011. The event is free and open to the public.

Jul. 15 – Jul. 17, Vashon All Class Reunion Weekend, Vashon All Class Alumni Prom (Fri., Jul. 15) Olivette Community Center; All Class Reunion Picnic (Sat., Jul. 16, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.); Official After Party (Jul. 16 ) Masonic Hall, 3820 Olive. For information, call (314)-369-6548

Sat., Jul. 23, 7 p.m., 1st Annual Green Grass Carpet Honolulu Ball, Visitation Hall, 1421 N. Taylor. For information, call (314)480-0311.

Tues., Jul. 26, 7 p.m., World Percussion Theatre 2011 featuring the Katherine Dunham Youth, Sheldon Concert Hall, 3648 Washington. Tickets available by calling Metrotix Charge Line at 314-534-1111 or 1800-293-5949. They may also be purchased at the Fox Theatre Box Office or online at www.thesheldon.org or www.metrotix.com

Jul. 30, 9 a.m., Hopewell MB Church Back to School Rally and Health Fair Mammogram van available, free mammograms for uninsured women 40yrs+. Must make appt for mammograms. Hopewell MB Church, 915 N. Taylor. For more information, call 314-705-1190.

literary

Sat., Jun. 18, 6 p.m., 13

Black Katz present Flight Time a special V.I.P. reception and book signing featuring Shirley Strawberry and Lyah Beth LeFlore , Missouri Vineyard Bar and Restaurant (inside Lambert International Airport). For more information, visit www.13blackkatz.com.

Mon., June 20, 7:30-pm, AddLife! Studio presents ‘Great Work in Progress: A Night of Exciting Literary Performance & Feedback’. Join a lively, smart and urban bunch of daring writers, poets, and playwrights for this weekly summer adventure in performing and developing our best work. At 625 N. Euclid Ave., 63108. Suite # 226. Get info at www.addlifestudio.com or call (314) 458 - 4282.

Mon., Jun. 27, 7 p.m., The St. Louis County Library Foundation’s Reading Garden Event Series and Pudd’nHead Books present young adult author Ally Carter for a discussion and signing of Uncommon Criminals, St. Louis County Library Headquarters, 1640 S. Lindbergh Blvd. For more information, Contact St. Louis County Library by phone 314994-3300 or visit www.slcl.org.

theatre

Jun. 20, 7 p.m., Auditions for New Line Theatre’s production of the St. Louis premiere of the rock musical PASSING STRANGE, Washington University South Campus, 6501 Clayton Road (formerly CBC High School), just east of Big Bend, in the second floor theatre. This is not on the Washington University main campus. Performers need to come to only one of the dates. The show will run Sept. 22Oct. 15, 2011. Call 314-7736526 or email info@NewLineTheatre.com for more information.

Sun., Jun. 26, 8 p.m., Lemmons Hilarious Sketch Comedy Show, Lemmons, 5800 Gravois.

Through Jun. 26, The St. Louis Black Repertory Company will present the world premiere of Samm-Art Williams’ The Montford Point Marine. The Grandel Theatre, 3610 Grandel Square. Tickets are available from the Black Rep Box Office (314) 5343810, from Metro Tix (314) 534-1111, or online at metrotix.com.

Jul. 12 –Jul. 15, The STLCCMeramec Theatre will present the Summer Children’s Production of “Hyronomous A. Frog: The Frog Prince” The Meramec Theatre, 11333 Big Bend Road in Kirkwood. For more information, call (314)984-7562.

Don King Promotions presents Show Me Something Great featuring Devon Alexander vs. Lucas Matthysse.For more information,see SPECIAL EVENTS.

Thurs., Jun. 16 – Sun., Jun. 19, St. Louis Arts Project Conference will feature dynamic art and music programming as well as visual artists, musicians and related fields. These participants will come together to take place in artist talks, panels, discussions, workshops and never-beforeseen in St. Louis events. at the Contemporary Art Museum and the Regional Arts Commission. For more information, visit http://stlartsproject.org

June 17 through July 24, The Gallery at The Regional Arts Commission presents Point o Departure featuring Cbabi, Jarvis and Lobdell. Opening reception will take place on Fri., Jun. 17 at 5:30 p.m. Gallery talk will take place at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday Jun. 30, Regional Arts Commission, 6128 Delmar.

Through July 3, Craft Alliance presents Identify Yourself. In this national invitational and juried exhibition, artists will explore the concept of identity through their art. The question will be asked “Who are you?” Juror and Curator Duane Reed selected work from emerging and established artists from across the country including Sonya Clark, Gregory Gannon, Mary Josephson, Elizabeth Lo, Mark Newport and Joyce J. Scott. Craft Alliance, 6640 Delmar Blvd. For more information, call (314)535-7528 or visit www.craftalliance.org

Through August 1, MFA Thesis Exhibition featuring the candidates in Washington University’s Graduate School of Art, part of the Sam Fox School of Design & Visual Arts, Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum.

Through August 1, Cosima Von Bonin Character Appreciation, Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum.

Through August 14, Cryptic: The Use of Allegory inContemporary Art with a Master Class from Goya.This exhibition will feature the work of six contemporary artists – Folkert de Jong, Hiraki Sawa, Allison Schulnik, Dana Schutz, Javier Tellez, and Erika Wanenmacher –paired with works by Spanish master Francisco José de Goya y Lucientes. Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis,3750 Washington Boulevard. For more information, visit www.camstl.org.

Through August 28 PPRC

Photography Project: BarnesJewish Hospital Center for Diversity & Cultural Competence, an exhibit at two locations. LOCATION 1: Through Aug. 28 at PPRC Photography Project Gallery, 427 Social Sciences and Business Building at UMSL, 1 University Blvd., St. LouisCounty, Mo. 63121; LOCATION 2: Through July 31 at Arts + Healthcare Gallery in the Shoenberg Pavilion at Barnes-Jewish Hospital, 4921 Parkview Place, St. Louis, Mo. 63110; Opening reception: 5:30-7 p.m. May 3; For more information, call (314) 5165273 or visit www.pprc.umsl.edu.

lectures

Fri., Jun. 17, 6 p.m., Saint Louis University School of Medicine Office of Multicultural Affairs Smart Track Lecture Series presents Seven Habits of Highly Effective Teens Presented by Alfreda Brown, Executive Director of East Central Missouri Area Health Educational Center Followed by a Q&Asession with Duane H. Moore, M.D. Graduate of Cardinal Ritter College Prep and Saint Louis University School of Medicine .SLU Learning Resource Center (LRC) rooms 112-113 .Please RSVPby June 16, 2011 at oma@slu.edu or 314-9778730.

Thurs., Jun. 23, 4 p.m., The Back Office - How to keep up with all that paperwork! Accounting, Payroll etc. The Missouri Regional Certification Committee (MRCC) partnering agencies, METRO, Lambert Airport Authority, MoDOTand several community agencies are holding a Free – Outreach Seminar for all D/M/WBEs and business owners. The guest speakers for this event include Ginni Campbell, National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO), Darlene Davis, Davis Associates, CPA, LLC, Marvin Johnson, BJC Healthcare Planning Design and Construction, Sandra Marks, Marks and Associates and Sharon Stone, Lambert Airport Legal Department. Harris Stowe State University in the (Telecommunity RoomLibrary) 3026 Laclede Ave. Pre-registration is required. For more information, call 314 982-1400 Ext. 1352 to sign up.

Sat., Jun. 25, 9 a.m., St. Louis Community College hosts How to be a successful landlord taught by Mary

Hankins covering the basics like city and county ordinances for owning investment property, leasing documents, tips on maintenance, etc. She also discusses more critical subjects: how to avoid or detect illegal activities on the property, managing tenant personalities, and the eviction process. For more information or to register for How to be a successful landlord, contact St. Louis Community College, 314-9847777 or visit http://www.stlcc. edu/Continuing_Education/ Mon., Jun. 27, 9 a.m., Informational Seminaron Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) “Green Building Concept.” The seminar will provide an overview of green building practices, with emphasis on site planning and development, water efficiency, conservation of materials and indoor environmental quality. A free – Outreach Seminar for all D/M/WBEs and business owners. The guest speakers is Patricia Guttmann, Business Development Specialist for SBA. Harris Stowe State University in the (Telecommunity RoomLibrary) 3026 Laclede Ave. Pre-registration is required. For more information, call 314 982-1400 Ext. 1352 to sign up.

Jun. 30 – Aug. 18, Along with the National Black MBA Association-St. Louis Chapterand Marks & Associates, ITEnterprises at the University of MissouriSt. Louis will sponsorthe Entrepreneurial Boot Camp There are two opening workshops, which will be held at ITe, on June 30 and July 14. Both are free and open to the public and start with a reception at 5:30 p.m. with workshops running from 6:15 to 8 p.m. Seating is limited. The boot camp is a comprehensive three-part program designed to help participants understand

Missouri History Museum presents their Second Sunday Celebration with Oleta Adams.See CONCERTS or details

the market for starting a business, determine the type of business that best suits them and how to navigate a path to ensure success. Industry experts will facilitate the workshops. Email stlblackmba@charter.net to RSVPor for more information.

TMAPYouth Empowerment Sessions, Thursdays, 4:45 p.m., 5019 Alcott Walbridge C.E.C. Riverview West Florissant -TMAPmeet for Youth Empowerment Sessions facilitated by Keith Minor Nuisance Coordinator in the 27th Ward and feature a variety of positive role models from the St. Louis area listen to and dialogue with youth in the Walnut Park neighborhood. Topics vary and are youth driven. Call the RWF-TMAP office at (314) 381-6999.

health

Thurs. June 16, 11:45 a.m., “Preparing OurFaith Communities forDisasters,” a faith based emergency preparedness conference at St. Louis University - DuBourg Hall - Refectory Room 157, 221 N. Grand in St. Louis. Space is limited to one person from the first 150 churches. Food and parking is provided. Registration begins May 1deadline is June 3. Churches

can register by calling Cathy Harris at 314-977-8274 or email charri29@slu.edu

Sat. June 18, 7 a.m. - 2nd Annual Ronald McDonald House Charities of Metro St. Louis’Bike Ride in Forest Park. The event has five race options: To ride, volunteer or for more information, visit www.rmhcridestl.com, 314932-4146 or e-mail lfletcher@rmhcstl.com.

Sat., Jun. 18, 9 a.m., LTS Love Outreach Ministry and Health Unit presents Meet the Professionals – Community Health Fair, 626 N. Newstead, St. Louis, Mo 63108.

Sun. June 19, Katy Trail Father’s Day Family Bike Ride, to benefit prostate cancer research at Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine. Riders can start from a designated KATY Trailhead and ride to Defiance, Mo. Pre-registration is $10.00 ($15.00 day of ride). For more information, or to sign-up, go to www.fathersdaybikeride.com.

Sat., Jun. 25, 7:30 a.m., CHIPS Health and Wellness Center11th Annual 5k Run/Walk and 1 Mile Fun Walk and Community Health Festival, CHIPS Health and Wellness Center, 2431 N. Grand Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63106. For more information, call (314) 652-9231 Ext.20.

Sat., Jun. 25, 8 a.m., CochlearAmericas is sponsoring a free Hearing Health Fair to help educate St. Louis area residents about hearing loss and today’s modern solutions, such as cochlear implants. The Hearing Health Fair will provide several seminars, one on one opportunities for people who currently no longer benefit from hearing aids and for those who want to learn about other treatment options. The Sheraton at Westport, 900 Westport Plaza.

For more information on the Hearing Health Fair or to register, visit www.hearinghealthfair.com or call 877-HEARTHIS (432-7844).

Sat. June 25, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., 12th Annual American Red Cross Charles Drew Commemorative Blood Drive for sickle cell disease patients at the Omega Center at 3900 Goodfellow in St. Louis, and the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Center and Foundation in East St. Louis, Illinois located at 101 Jackie Joyner Kersee Cir. Schedule an appointment by calling 1-800-RED CROSS extension 5884

Sun., Jun. 19, 10 a.m., Memorial Missionary Baptist Church Family & Friends Day, 4001 Fair Ave., St. Louis, Missouri 63115. For information, contact: Sis: Marie Dixon 314-723-0426 or Sis: Rosie Donald 314-867-4932. Jun. 20 – Jun. 24, 6:30 p.m., J Coleman Wright CME (the family church) Vacation Bible School, ages two through adult, The Theme is Go Green for Jesus!9777 Halls Ferry Rd. For more information, call (314) 868-6659. Sun. June 26, 3 p.m. “Grace,” the 18th annual concert of Celebration Choir at Christ OurRedeemer AME Church, 13820 Old Jamestown Road, Black Jack, Mo. 63033.For more information, call 314-741-4222.

July 11-15, Bishop Larry J. Baylor, Bishop Terence E. Coleman & HigherGround International Ministries, Inc. will host its Annual Conference! Nightly Services begin Monday, July 11 at 7:30 P.M. at Greater Grace Church, 3690 Pershall Rd. Ferguson, MO. 63135. Daily Seminars begin Tuesday, July 12 at 8:30 A.M. at Faith Miracle Temple Church in Florissant, MO 63034 for more information visit www.hgim.us or call (314) 653-9346 ext. 49.

Continued from C1

urban communities, I am sure Judge Cahill would be proud. We can’t say enough about Tony (T-Luv) and Gabrielle Davis’ 10th Anniversary Party at Mandarin last week. Guests were asked to wear black and white but the host and hostess showed out in their Tiffany blue. A great look for a warm summer evening at the trendy Mandarin Club on Maryland Plaza. Guests enjoyed scrumptious hors d’oeuvres and monogrammed cupcakes provided by Ebony’s Eventful Eats.

A few well-wishers tipping their hats to Tony and Gabrielle, including Derwin Johnson Murphy Lee of recent Freaky Muscato fame, Starpower’s Abe Givens and Ashaki Meyers Daryel Oliver (B.E.C.), Megan Noone, Cynthia Donaldson (First Bank), James and Robin Walker, Pam and David Reese Cheryl and Wady Johnson Keisha Bennett local designer Skylar Barnes, Loretta and Art Green and Tiara Reese. Sons Cameron Joy and Titus Davis greeted guests out on the Plaza. Cameron is a 2011 Trinity High School honors graduate. He will attend Southeast Missouri State this fall. Kudos, Cam! Speaking of recent graduates, I ran into Erika and Patrick Sandiford M.D. the other day. Son Jonathan Sandiford is a 2011 graduate of John Burroughs High School in West County. Jonathan will attend University of Missouri Columbia in the fall. Way to go, Jonathan! Thank you, top publicist Sheila Banks, for the hot tip announcing St. Louis’ first Paul Mitchell Focus Salon “212.” “212” is owned and operated by Paul Mitchell Cosmetology School grad and partner St. Louisan Roe Alexander. The full service salon is located at 511 Garrison Avenue. Call 314.534.HAIR to book a morning or afternoon of pampering now!

Pretty in tangerine, Judi Fagen Coleman was spotted last week at Forest Park Forever’s annual hatted affair in a perky tangerine sundress, impressive straw hat and

traditional pearls. Also by her side and equally elegant were Terry Mulligan and United Way VP Cheryl Polk @Bob Joiner, this one’s for you: Stopping in Detroit (Motown) on your way to Idlewild

n St. Louis power brokers Mike and Steve Roberts have added another notch to their belts, or should I say “star to their hotel chain”?

this summer? St. Louis power brokers Mike and Steve Roberts have added another notch to their belts, or should I say “star to their hotel chain”?

The brothers have acquired the former Omni Riverwalk Hotel and christened it the Roberts Riverwalk Hotel and Residence. Nearby, Ret. Detroit Police Commander Gregory Plummer (FYI, Spelman alums – not to be confused with son, well known business exec and party promoter Greg GP Plummer in L.A.) has launched his new restaurant Enjoy Again. This soon-tobe-popular eatery offers all of your favorite home-style dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner!

Michele Berry (Alexian Brothers) is beaming after spending a few days in L.A. with Grand-daughter Ella Michele Lamothe. Michele was thrilled to babysit Ella while her parents, former St. Louisan music mogul Pete Lamothe and Lisa Gutierrez (American Express) celebrated Lisa’s birthday at the popular Aria Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.

Continued from C1

tion” and “Reasons” have allowed Bailey to become one of the most identifiable voices in music.

“My vocal instrument is something that I’m always discovering,” Bailey said. “I just go out there and let the Lord move me in the way that he sees fit, and I’m glad that the audience appreciates it.”

St. Louis loves him back. One of the greatest musicians to emerge from this area, East St. Louis jazz composer and trumpeter Miles Davis, said Earth, Wind and Fire was his “all-time favorite band.”

An inspired audience

Bailey said he feels blessed with the opportunity to perform the band’s positive lyrics.

“I think one of the beautiful things about Earth, Wind and Fire is that the choices we’ve made to lyrically sing messages that were positive and uplifting and that several generations can sing and enjoy,” Bailey said.

“It is something that we will always look to as being very, very proud that we made that choice, because it’s really redemptive in terms of when we look at our legacy. It’s something we can look back and say that was a good decision to follow our hearts and say what was on our hearts that was uplifting and brought some life.”

The lyrics to songs like “Keep Your Head to the Sky” and “Shining Star” (the band’s

SINGLE

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lectual man I’ve earhustled at events we both attended and become enamored of his intellect and ability to engage ... is sitting across from me.

So he sits down and takes my breath away. I had already imagined this encounter, and it ended with us drawing a crowd as we engaged in conversation about the Haitian revolution, the Great Migration and Ethiopia’s successful defense against the Italians’ attempt at colonial rule.

Yes … deep.

In real life … not so much.

The five minutes seemed like 36 hours as I scrambled and burned at the shock of not being

n “People from St. Louis are able to appreciate music from a whole different level.”

– Philip Bailey

only No. 1 single) read like personal affirmations to carry one through trying times and reminded listeners of their personal worth.

“It’s been something. Looking back and singing some of the songs, the songs have really spoken to us at certain times – spoken to me at certain times – in a very uplifting and empowering way,” Bailey said.

“The very message I was giving out to somebody else has come back and blessed me.”

The band’s success has rewarded EWF members with benefits that go beyond the intangible. Seven Top 10 singles, Six Grammy Awards, four American Music Awards, induction in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame are just a few of the awards that they share, along with countless gold and platinum records.

prepared to flip the switch on my award-worthy chatter game.

“My car got hit by the tornado,” was the best I could come with.

How do you get to Toussaint L’Overture from that? You don’t.

He smiled and kept eye contact, but I was such a wreck I fell to pieces as I internally scrambled to say something to forge a conversation connection.

I tried this next: “How’s life?

I live in my own basement –isn’t that crazy?”

I was reaching for the stars in an attempt to crawl out of the grave I dug for myself with my mackdown.

I was a social butterfly who got her wing caught in a window fan … on mute, if you will.

It was so bad that the person who had strategically staged the

For them, the reward of creating music that moves and inspires people trumps any of the public accolades or profits they have received.

“It’s really a process of, first, us being totally enamored and in love with the music and then creating music that we felt and was moving us,” Bailey said.

“It was very intentional. From the inception of EWF, Maurice’s vision was to lift the consciousness of humanity with the music. What we want you to experience is life in a more fulfilling and enriching way, and we hope that our music accompanies that life in a way that you can celebrate.” Earth, Wind and Fire will perform at the Fox Theatre on Saturday, June 18 at 8 p.m. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com or call 314- 5341111.

“date between us” couldn’t hold her peace after eyeballhustling our date from her peripheral.

“What happened?” she asked with a larger-than-life question mark expression plastered across her face.

“The whole reason why I invited him and you was so that you two could connect,” she said. “I thought you two would be perfect for each other. I picked him and you for this so that you can end up together.”

Does she really know how to dig the knife in.

“Girl, it was going wrong at ‘hello,’” I said in my own defense. “I just can’t see what I could have done differently to make him feel me.”

“Be yourself,” she said with a “no-duh” look on her face. No duh. Note taken.

Newlyweds Mr. and Mrs. Brandon Michael Williams were married on May 7 in a private ceremony held at Mama Doc Elinor Hancock’s home in North County. They plan to live in St. Louis.

Museum Celebrates Fathers, Mentors, and Families

Memorial Day weekend not only marks the beginning of summer but also the start of numerous fairs and festivals throughout metro St. Louis. Fairs and festivals offer wonderful opportunities for the Saint Louis Art Museum to reach beyond its walls to engage adults and children in family fun art-making activities that explore the Museum’s collection. The Art Museum kicked off the 2011 festival season by sponsoring free activities at both the African Arts Festival and Fair U-City over the Memorial Day weekend. At the African Arts Festival, visitors to the Art Museum booth decorated lower pots with Adrinka symbols and received African Daisy seeds to plant. Inspired by our Egyptian collection, adults and children of all ages enjoyed creating Egyptian necklaces and bracelets to adorn their summer outits at Fair U-City.

We invite you to join us this Saturday, June 18, from 7:30 am – 3:00 pm, as the Art Museum partners with the Fatherhood Initiative Committee for the Annual Fathers Walk/5K Run and Rally. The “15th Annual Fatherhood Walk/5K Run and Rally” will be held on the campuses of Saint Louis University, Laclede Park at Compton and Harris-Stowe State University. The 5K run will begin at 7:30 am, followed by the walk at 8:30 am, both on the Saint Louis University campus. There will be a wide variety of booths, festivities and activities beginning at 10:00 am on the campus of Harris Stowe State University, which will continue until 3:00 pm. Festival goers can enjoy complimentary parking at the Saint Louis University Compton/Olive street garage – follow the signs.

In keeping with the 2011 theme, ““Fathers, Mentors and Families”, there will be free activities everyone can enjoy. Adult activities will include educational, employment, home ownership and health screening booths. Inspired by art and design, children and adults of all ages can create that special gift for dads at the Art Museum booth as well as hear books read by St. Louis celebrities at the Literacy booth. State and local elected oficials will report to the community at 12 noon. Back by popular demand, multi-talented Mama Lisa will take to the stage at 12:30 and is sure to entertain and educate. We urge you to bring the whole family to a day of celebrating health, education, and family. Refreshments will also be available at no charge.

The Art Museum has had a ten-year relationship with the Father Support Center- St.

Louis and is proud to collaborate with more than a dozen other cultural institutions and social agencies who have come together to form the 2011 Fatherhood Initiative Committee (FIC), to promote healthy families and communities through encouraging responsible fatherhood. The Fatherhood Initiative Committee partners include: Catholic Charities, Fathers Support Center-St. Louis, Grace Hill, Manufacturing Training Alliance, Molina HealthCare-MO, Ofice of Minority Health, Parents as Teachers, Ofice of Senator Claire McCaskill, St. Louis Science Center, YMCA, and YWCA .

We hope to see you this Saturday to enjoy the wide variety of free family fun activities at the 15th Annual Fatherhood Walk/5K Run and Rally.” For speciic questions about the Walk/5K Run and Rally or about the Fatherhood Initiative Committee (FIC) please contact Chester Deanes, Father Support Center-St. Louis at 314-333-4170 Ext. 142. Explore the arts throughout the summer at the many fairs and festivals the Art Museum supports -- Juneteenth Festival at Sabayet, Fiesta in Florissant, the Puerto Rican Festival, the Festival of Nations and the Hispanic Festival.

For a complete listing of Saint Louis Art Museum programs visit www.slam.org.

For more information and a complete listing of programs at the Saint Louis Art Museum, please visit www.slam.org.

Circulation transition

With the sudden death of Paul Reiter, the longtime St. Louis American circulation manager, on May 9, the newspaper lost a 22-year veteran whose efforts were largely responsible for the paper’s wide and consistent availibility.

As we recover from Paul’s loss and attempt to replace an irreplaceable colleague, please be patient with us, as the paper may not be as widely and readily available as our readers expect. At the same time, we need to hear from you about any interruptions or decline in service. If you can’t ind The American where you expect

to ind it, please email circulation@stlamerican.com and be very speciic as to when and where the paper was unavailable. Also, please put “Circulation” in the subject line.

Remember, email circulation@stlamerican.com. Thank you.

By Melanie Adams

Warm memories of the South

‘Warmth of Other Suns’ author at History Museum on Saturday

I didn’t want to go to Georgia for the summer. It was 1976 and I was a seven-year-old New Jersey girl who wanted to hang out with her friends and play in her own backyard. My mother had other plans for my brother and me. We were being sent South to stay with her family. Her parents, brothers, and sisters had remained in the South while my mother migrated North to graduate school and a life outside of the conines of the South. She packed up the Lincoln town car, illed the gas tank and we started the 16-hour drive.

The irst year we went South my mother dropped us off at the family farm and drove back to New Jersey, leaving us with people I barely knew. I was now surrounded by aunts, uncles, cousins and grandparents whom I could barely understand and who could barely understand me. My cousins made fun of my funny accent and referred to me as the “Northern” cousin. My grandmother got me used to farm life right away by having me collect eggs, slop pigs and snap peas. This life was a far cry from my easy city life back in Jersey where I would sit around most of the day watching TV or playing with friends.

Living in the South required some work, and everyone had to do a share.

I thought of my visits to Georgia while I was reading The Warmth of Other Suns. Isabel Wilkerson’s book paints a vivid picture of life in the South, the people who lived there and why they ultimately left. Ms. Wilkerson will be a guest at the Missouri History Museum for a lecture and book signing on Saturday, June 18 at 2 p.m.; it’s a free program and open to all.

During my times in Georgia as a young child, I never experienced anything close to the awful conditions Wilkerson describes. My South was different from the days of the Great Migration, but through Wilkerson’s book I lived those days.

Many people are under the impression that after the Civil War things only got better for African Americans in the South, but that is far from the truth. For a little while after the Civil War during reconstruction, the situation for African Americans did improve a bit; but after being a slave, the only place you can really go is up. Once people in the North thought things were better for the former slaves, they stopped monitoring the conditions and things got worse right away. Through various legislative acts, the South created a system of laws that essentially kept African Americans in a type of bondage not all that different from slavery. As the Labor Department said, “Fifty years after the Civil War, they should not be expected to be content with the same conditions which existed at the close of the war.”

The Great Migration brought over six million African Americans from the South to points north and west. They escaped mostly by train, sometimes under the cover of night and in fear of their lives, much like slaves on the Underground Railroad. For a class of people that only 50 years

before were considered “property,” the start of the Great Migration, Wilkerson wrote, “was the irst big step the nation’s servant class ever took without asking.”

The Warmth of Other Suns is a sweeping work that chronicles the migration of three individuals whose stories can be told by millions of African Americans from the South. The three people took one of the three migration routes out of the South, all of which were based on the train routes. Ida Mae Brandon Gladney followed her husband from Mississippi to Minneapolis and inally settled in Chicago. George Swanson Starling barely escaped Florida with his life and traveled up the east coast to New York. Dr. Robert Joseph Pershing Foster left Louisiana for the bright lights of Los Angeles for the life he saw in the movies.

The last time I was in Georgia on my grandparents’ farm was about ive years ago for Thanksgiving. My grandparents passed away years ago, but had they were able to leave all 10 of their children some land. So now some of my aunts and uncles have built homes on what use to be the family farm. The house my mother was raised in and where I spent my childhood summers still stands and is currently occupied by one of my cousins.

Over the years I’ve grown to think fondly on my time spent down South and the experiences it provided. From sitting on the front porch eating homemade peach ice cream to hopping in the pick-up with my grandfather to round up the cows, these Southern experiences shaped my mother and in some small way shaped me.

Isabel Wilkerson – The Warmth of Other Suns Saturday, June 18 at 2 p.m. Lee Auditorium Lecture followed by book signing FREE

Happy 50th Birthday (June 14) to the St. Louis American’s own Barbara Sills-McElroy!

Beaumont High School Class of 1965 is looking for all classmates interested in celebrating our 45-year reunion. We are in the process of planning a dinner/dance.Your contact information is needed ASAP. Pleaseemail LaLinda Newsom Diggs at lalindadiggs@sbcglobal.net.

~ CELEBRATIONS ~

Centenarian Berry celebrates her 100th

Bernice Berry will celebrate her 100th birthday on June 18, 2011. She lives independently and still does her own cooking. She is a member of Memorial Missionary Baptist Church. Mother Berry says she has been traveling this road for a long time and she’s not tired yet!

Beaumont High School Class of 1966 has sent out letters announcing their 45-year reunion to be held Oct. 14-16, 2011.Friday night - Meet & Greet; Saturday night - Dinner Dance and Sunday morningBrunch.All events will be held at TheSt. Louis Airport Renaissance Hotel.Please contact Josh Beeks 314-3030791 or Evelyn Wright- 314479-7674.

Beaumont High School Class of 1971’s 40-year reunion is scheduled for Aug. 5-7, 2011. $90 per person.E-mailyour contact information to beaumont71alumni@yahoo.com for details or contact Vernon Betts at (314) 226-3127.

Beaumont High School Class

Centenarian WWII veteran turns 102

James A. Rodger

James A. Rodger turns 102 on June 18, 2011. He is a WWII veteran and is retired from a 30 year career with the government. He has two sons, 11 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren. He enjoys watching baseball and wrestling. His best advice to young people is, “Treat people right, and try to live right.”

Birthdays!

David W. Buck (49)—June 15

Jasmine Mattox—June 21

Bob Trussell—June 18

of 1976 will have its 35-year reunionAug. 19-21, 2011. Friday night,Aug. 19, meet & greet, hospitality suite St. Louis AirportRenaissance Hotel; Sat., Aug. 20, dinner dance,St. Louis Airport Renaissance Hotel Penthouse; Sun., Aug. 21, worship & picnic.For more detailed information pleaseemail bhs1976@swbell.net or visit our website at http://desyco.tripod.com

East St. Louis Lincoln Class of 1971, calling all classmates interested in their 40-year reunion, please send your contact info to: Lincoln Class of 1971, PO Box 1430, East St. Louis, IL62202. Email us at ESTLLincoln1971@hotmail.c om, on Facebook at

Anniversary The Martins celebrate 20!

Rev. Calvin and Dorothy Martin will celebrate 20 years of marriage on June 17, 2011, thanking God for being the head of their marriage and life. They are the proud parents of two sons, Caron and Christopher Martin. “Far as me and our house, we will serve the Lord.”

ESLLinconPenn or call 618781-4888 or 314-249-7295.

Hadley Technical High School class of 1961 is preparing for its 50-year reunion in 2011. We are seeking contact information to complete our directory. For more information contact Ralph Johnson 314-477-2042 or William Perry 314-531-3170.

Kinloch High School Class of 1970 will host their 41st Reunion Dinner Dance on June 10, 2011 at the Heart of St. Charles Banquet Center. Please contact Arlene Davis at 4800103, Lester Wilson at 8632180, or Mc McKinnies at 524-0126 for more info.

Kinloch High Class of 1976 has scheduled its 35-year reunion for Aug. 12-13, 2011.

or Sheila (Hughes) Bell at 314-680-8878.

McCluerNorth Class of 1992 is looking for all classmates interested in celebrating our 20-year reunion. We are in the process of planning a dinner/dance. Your contact information is needed ASAP. Go to the web-site at mccluernorth1992.com

Riddick

School/Neighborhood Reunion UPDATE! Dates: Sept. 2-3, 2011 Fri. Sept.2— Meet and Greet; Sat. Sept.3— Picnic (Forest Park). Costs: $30/individual, $60/couple, $75/family. Deadline for submitting money is July 15,

Reunion notices are free of charge and based on space availability. We prefer that notices be emailed to us! However, notices may also be sent \by mail to: Kate Daniel, 4242 Lindell Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63108. Deadline is 10 a.m. on Friday. If you’d like your class to be featured in a reunion profile, email or mail photos to us. Our email address is: reunions@ stlamerican.com

Bernice Berry

RELIGION

Area Lutherans organize day of service

Plus, New Life awards $20K in scholarships to church youth

American staff

Area Lutheran congregations and faith-based organizations recently organized and motivated an estimated 400-plus volunteers to serve at one of 25 community-based projects as part of Send Me Saturday. These short-term, handson, family-friendly projects were completed by groups of 10-80 volunteers.

In addition, those serving were invited to participate in a short morning devotion followed by an afternoon relection and celebration at their project site “to rejoice in all that God accomplished that day and what He still has planned for our lives and our community,” according to organizers.

Send Me Saturday is a cooperative effort of Send Me St. Louis (www.sendmestlouis. org) and area-wide Lutheran congregations and faith-based organizations to help participants “put their faith in action and serve their neighbors,” organizers said.

At one project site, Messiah Lutheran Church and Christian Friends of New Americans partnered with 80-plus volunteers to spruce up both of their facilities and the surrounding neighborhood.

Organizers said Send Me St. Louis supports and inspires pastors and congregational leaders who are equipping their members for service, both within the congregation and out into the local community. Services

versity – Edwardsville

* Nygel A. Williams, Mascoutah High School – Minister Sheila Renee Swgert Memorial Scholarship. $2,500, attending St. Louis University

* Shontrice N. Garrett, East St. Louis Sr. High School – John H. McCants Hope Scholarship, $5,000, attending Jackson State University

New Life in Christ began awarding scholarships to graduating high school seniors who are members of the church eight years ago. Recipients were chosen based on their high academic achievement and their ability to demonstrate a love for serving others as well as their communities. To date, more than $106,000 in scholarships has been presented.

By Cynthia R. Bennett For The St. Louis American

We have been advised by health professionals to lower our caloric intake, to reduce our weight and eat healthy with regular exercise. We’ve been told that doing these things relieves stress and increases years to our lives. We are also instructed to get some rest and relaxation and to take vitamins to replace minerals that our bodies are no longer producing or contain.

I for one try to partake in all of the suggestions mentioned. But then I look at it from another angle.

out devils and died on a cross for a world that did not know or understand him.

include training, coaching, support, access to best practices, faith-equipping tools, networking opportunities, and connection to volunteer opportunities.

Send Me St. Louis and Send Me Saturday are supported through a grant from Lutheran Foundation of St. Louis

New Life awards scholarships

On Sunday, New Life in Christ Interdenominational Church awarded scholarships totaling $20,000 to seven area high school students during its annual Education Sunday worship services. More than 90 graduates were honored.

“These seven young people have shown the world that they are ready to make a difference, and that they are more than deserving of the investment we’re making in their futures,” said Bishop Geoffrey V. Dudley, New Life in Christ senior

pastor.

The 2011 New Life in Christ scholarship recipients are:

* Lauren A. Little, Belleville Township High School East –

Bishop Geoffrey V. Dudley, Sr. Pastoral Scholarship of Excellence, $4,000, attending Bethel College

* Emily M. Storment, Belleville Township High School East –Ida Dorothy Dudley Memorial Scholarship, $2,5000, attending Benedictine College

* Ebony M. Marks, Belleville Township High School West –New Life in Christ Interdenominational Church Life Changer Scholarship, $2,000, attending Tuskegee University

* Danielle Moody, O’Fallon Township High School – New Life in Christ Interdenominational Life Changer Scholarship, $2,000, attending Spelman College

* Christian A. Murray, Belleville Township High School West – New Life in Christ Interdenominational Church Life Changer Scholarship, $2,000, attending Southern Illinois Uni-

The church’s annual Education Sunday services recognizes the scholarship recipients, as well as other members who are graduating from high school and college, and transitioning from elementary and middle school levels.

New Life in Christ Interdenominational Church, founded in 2003, is located at 689 Scott Troy Road in O’Fallon, Ill.

Father’s Day at Scruggs Memorial

Scruggs Memorial CME Church, 3680 Cook at Spring & Redd Foxx Ln. will observe its Annual Men’s Day Fathers’ Day, June 19, during both 11 a.m. service and 3p.m. program, with the theme “No Greater Love:Reclaiming Our Youth for a Faith-Based Future.” Special guest speaker for the event is retired educator Raymond S. Dennis. Several area male choruses and praise dance groups will be featured. Call 314-4945554.

Everyone talks about the duration of life more than the deposit of life. We were sent here to make a contribution into the Kingdom of God for his purpose. I know we attend prayer, bible study and Sunday morning services, but what contributions are you making to add souls to the kingdom?

Jesus displayed the deposit of life. He lived a short 33 and a half years, but made lifeand soul-altering changes to mankind. In John 7:33, Jesus said, “I am with you for only a short time.” He knew the purpose God had for him and was here on Kingdom business. He ministered to the poor, fed the hungry, gave sight to the blind, healed the lame, cast

“Deposit” means to put or set down; to place. That is exactly what Jesus did; he put things in place, set up ordinances; and he put down sacrilegious ideologies. Because he did it, so should we. He said that we are to do greater works than he. That is an awesome statement. Talk about encouraging your kids to greatness! Good parents always want their children to excel past them; they always desire them to go farther than they did. That is what God is saying to us! Of all of the miracles and ministry of Jesus he said that we are to do GREATER! That blows my mind. Anybody who studies the bible knows what Jesus did. God said we are to do greater works! In order to accomplish this, we must begin to work on the deposit of life and minister to the lost, the hurting, the backslidden, the weak and feeble-minded, the discouraged and hopeless. The devil wants us to continue with the duration of life because it is selish and self-willed. You are only trying to reap the harvest of long living, but the deposit of life causes us sow and give to others out of ourselves in order to increase God’s kingdom.

Accepting Inspirational Messages

The American is accepting Inspirational Messages from the community. Send your column (no more than 500 words) as a Word document and pasted text to cking@stlamerican.com and attach a photo of yourself as a jpeg ile. Please be patient; we will run columns in the order received.

Evangelist Cynthia R. Bennett

At Christian Friends of New Americans, volunteers helped to build a fence as part of Send Me Saturday, a cooperative effort of Send Me St. Louis and area-wide Lutheran congregations and faith-based organizations.

ST. LOUIS AMERICAN

ESLCharterHigh School graduates 20 seniors

The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville East St. Louis Charter High School graduating class of 2011 has vital tools needed to deal with the challenges ahead, said Terrell Gilkey, a 2010 graduate of the charter high school and now a second-year student at Brandeis University in Massachusetts.

Gilkey, in his address, reminded students of the “fire inside of them,” noting, “The fire inside of you is accompanied by the strength of a people who did not bend to oppression. That fire is also joined by an eagerness to take on whatever life throws at you with grace, dignity and a smile on your face.”

The class of 20 graduating seniors included: Shamira Abrams, Jazmyne Brinkley, Alexis Harris, India Ivory, Sanna Lang, Kyesia Ogden, Cheyenne Perry, Francie Sanders, Devin Teer, Tramya Williams, C’Ariss Bland, Amerika Graham, Alexis Hickman, DeAmber Jones, Arturo Miller Jr., Elliott Pearson, Alma Pinedo, Henry St. James III, Jordan Williams and Raymond Winbush Jr. India Ivory and DeAmber

Jones received special recognition during the ceremony –Ivory as the Class Valedictorian and Jones as the Class Salutatorian. Jones also was the recipient of the $1,000 H.O.P.E. (Helping our Own Prosper in East St. Louis) Foundation Award. Established by Nicole E. Williams and Levi Leake (1992 and 1993 graduates respectively, of the East St. Louis Senior High School), this is the second year that the two Chicago residents awarded the scholarship to a deserving high school student in East St. Louis.

SIUE officials and administrators celebrating with the 2011 Class included Patrick Hundley, vice-chancellor for University Relations; Venessa Brown, associate provost and executive director of the SIUE East St. Louis Center; Bette Bergeron, dean of the SIUE School of Education; Frances Karanovich, director of the East St. Louis Charter High School; Sandra Fields, assistant director of the SIUE East St. Louis Center; and Willis Young, assistant director of the Charter High School.

The SIUE Charter High School is a School of Choice

for families in the East St.

Obama cracks down on deadbeat college programs

Last week, the Obama administration released final regulations requiring career college programs to better prepare students for “gainful employment” or risk losing access to federal student aid.

“These new regulations will help ensure that students at these schools are getting what they pay for: solid preparation

for a good job,” Secretary of Education Arne Duncan said.

To qualify for federal aid, the law requires that most forprofit programs and certificate programs at nonprofit and public institutions prepare students for gainful employment in a recognized occupation.

Under the new regulations, a program would be considered to lead to gainful employment if it meets at least one of the following three metrics: at least 35 percent of former students are repaying their loans (defined as reducing the loan balance by at least $1); the estimated annual loan payment of a typical graduate does not exceed 30 percent of his or her discretionary income; or the estimated annual loan payment of a typical graduate does not exceed 12 percent of his or her total earnings.

While the regulations apply to occupational training programs at all types of institutions, for-profit programs are most likely to leave their students with unaffordable debts and poor employment prospects.

Students at for-profit institutions represent 12 percent of all higher education students, 26 percent of all student loans and 46 percent of all student

at

institutions was $14,000, while the majority of students at community colleges do not borrow. More than a quarter of for-profit institutions receive 80 percent of their revenues from taxpayer-financed federal student aid.

“While for-profit schools have profited and prospered thanks to federal dollars, some of their students have not,” Duncan said.

Efforts to regulate abuse by for-profit institutions date back to the Reagan administration, under the leadership of then Secretary of Education William Bennett. However, regulations were weakened during the previous administration, leading to the rapid growth of enrollment and default rates at for-profit institutions in recent years.

“We’re asking companies that get up to 90 percent of their profits from taxpayer dollars to be at least 35 percent effective,” Duncan said. The full regulation may be found at: http://www.ed.gov/news/pressreleases/gainful-employmentregulations.

Louis School District #189.

India Ivory is Valedictorian, DeAmber Jones is Salutatorian

The SIUE East St.Louis Charter High School Class of 2011 celebrates after graduating.

Photo by SIUE Marketing & Communications

Celebrity Swagger Snap of the Week

A subdued Super Jam. I tip my wig to the Hot team for pulling off their 4th Super Jam without a hitch. They deserve some high praise for an event with 14K in the house and not an incident to speak of. But I would be lyin’ if I didn’t say I wasn’t necessarily in the spirit of it all. Part of it could have been that every time I got up to mingle, one of the ushers kept treating me like I was tryin’ to break back into my seat – even though I had a ticket. I must give my girl Amy Moorehouse a special shout out for tryin’ to make a sista feel welcome, but every time she was out of sight they got to cuttin’ up again. It was so bad that I didn’t even fraternize or try to hang with the folks like I’ve done in Super Jams of the past. Shall we get on with the show? I didn’t know what a YC was prior to Super Jam 4, but the lil girls seemed thrilled! Lloyd shed the insulation he was sportin’ the last time he came town and was sportin’ a fresh P90X build. I was moved by his midsection, but his music…not so much. He just seemed to have stumbled through until it was time to take his shirt off (which I ain’t mad at). The folks from the Lou love them some Yo Gotti As he was performing I thought to myself “he has a connection with the STL like he’s one of the St. Lunatics or something.” And just when I completed my thought a topless Nelly rushed the staged lookin’ like he just hopped off an abdomonizer machine. Mr. Country Grammar would be the hardest workin’ guest verse rapper in history by the time the night was over – I’ll get to that a bit later.

Keri Hilson came out swagger-jackin’ every artist on Uptown MCA circa 1993 in some silver Jodeci boots and a Mary J. Blige “My Life” blonde quick-weave with bangs. She came out hunchin’ for dear life like a dog in heat, but not doing much else. Even though I must admit that her face is absolutely lawless – which lends to my theory that a pretty face trumps talent all day in the music game…which is unfortunate. Anyway, she got a chance to clothes burn with Nelly for a hot second when he returned to the stage to rap on one of her songs. The name of their duet escapes me because by this time I was more concerned with a stubborn stray chin hair I found while scratching my face in confusion than anything she was servin’ up on stage. She could have humped on off into the sunset and I would have been none the wiser. As a matter of fact, after inviting a few locals up to sing along to “Pretty Girl Rock” that’s essentially how it ended. Super Jam’s home stretch. Once it got dark, it was time for the big names on the bill to shine. Wiz Khalifa came irst. I was a nervous wreck about what he was plannin’ to serve when he came to the stage drinkin’ out of a styrofoam cup and lookin’ like he just escaped in-school suspension by climbing out of a basement window with bars. But once the show got poppin’ he sat that cup down and got to grinning and what looked like a kungfu break dance battle with himself. I was quietly delighted by his um…unique stage presence. I don’t know something about how he says the “er” at the end of his words excites me. Amber Rose must have got a hint that I have miraculously caught a few feelings for her man because she was tooting around like she was paying homage to the horn section of an HBCU marching band. Nutcracker hat, sunglasses, g-strangs (yes, strangs) glowsticks or whatever it takes…she will be a spectacle by any means necessary. And in the Amber Rose style of being seen for no good reason is the best way to describe Wacka Flocka’s “performance.” Am I being too judgmental by assumin’ that if you’re a rapper, you should rap? He just bounced around, shook his dreads, said a line or two not necessarily in sync with the music let a girl from the audience grind on him and went home. Ludacris closed out the show and he was the utter opposite of the wandering caveman act that is Wacka’s stage show. Polished and professional, he served up the hits from his 10-year career in the game and with a live band to boot. Get it Luda! I would have loved to have seen someone else on the bill too, but I’d consider this Super Jam a win even if I didn’t necessarily have the star power of Super Jam’s gone by.

Good old fashioned Gemini party. Lynn Galloway would have been the belle of the ball regardless, but her Diana Ross-inspired sequined diddy had me hummin’ “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” as I made my way through her annual Gemini Old School Jam. The folks really put their ankles in to their costumes, but sadly, a few folks who came in their regular outits blended right into the 70’s theme. My insides melted when I actually saw people slowdancin’ for the irst time since the Y2K! Another one for the books girl!

Return of the Rrra. Would I be too mean if I quoted Antoine Dodson and said “hide your kids…?” Then I won’t. R. Kelly will be in town tomorrow night (Jun. 17) and I just wanted to remind y’all to come through the Chaifetz and get a sip of his live show, because he puts it down on stage! Keyshia Cole and Marsha Ambriousiisious will be joining him on the bill and while I’ve seen and been underwhelmed by Mrs. Boobie more than once, I’m eager to see what Marsha can do with a full set! The show starts at 8 p.m. and I heard they have a ticket special goin’ with seats as low as $29.95.

To say that the crowd was scattered for G-Unit star Lloyd Banks show at Amnesia would be putting it lightly, but despite the forgettable turnout the rapper tore it up like he was doin’ a sold-out set at the Scottrade. I wish I could have blamed it on the rain, but it hadn’t stopped through yet. Now with the Label gone to glory y’all better support the few little clubs we’ve got left.

Professional British Soul at EXO. Speakin’ of clubs and support, show some love to my Close To Famous fam and their special guest soul star Marsha Ambrolisioucusius for the Professional. She will be at the EXO following her performance as one of the openers for the R. Kelly Love Letter tour. I heard that she is one of the most down sistas in the R&B game and how many times

This lovely lady represented for the new school @ the Old School Gemini Party @ Lights on Broadway

Michelle and Kayla waiting to get their super jam on Sunday @ Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre

Lynn and Eric Galloway got down for her annual Gemini Old School Party Saturday night @ Lights on Broadway

Afton, Kim and NeNe

nesia

Ebony and Keesh

The lovely Ms. Whitney getting her serve

Jalisa and Malikah soaked in the sun at Super Jam

Sunday night @ Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre

Mika, Chelsea, Bea and Rocky getting their pretty girl on Thursday night @ Amnesia

Ludacris got it in as he closed out the show for Super Jam 4 Sunday @ Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre

Photos by Lawrence Bryant & Kenya Vaughn

Tyanna and Amanda Saturday night @ The All New Loft

G-Unit’s Lloyd Banks posed with the lovely Cameron

What blacks need to know about skin cancer

By Consuelo H.Wilkins,MD

It’s not quite summer but we’ve already had near 100 degree temperatures in St. Louis and across the country. Of course, that means we are spending more time outside enjoying the extra hours of sunshine.

Over the past two decades, messages about the importance of protecting the skin from excess sun exposure have substantially increased. Products with sunscreen or sunblock are readily available in most areas and are included in many skin care products. Unfortunately, the messages regarding whether people of color should use sunscreen have been inconsistent.

One of the most important reasons to protect your skin from the sun is to prevent skin cancer. People of color have lower rates of skin cancer, mostly due to melanin- the chemical responsible for skin color. Melanin also protects the skin from sun damage. The more melanin you have, the darker your skin and the more natural protection you have from the sun.

Although it’s great that melanin protects from the harmful effects of the sun, it also blacks the benefit of the sun which is to activate vitamin D. Because

many people of color have low vitamin D levels, scientists and health care providers have to weigh the risks and benefits of sun exposure for people of color.

Below are some important facts about skin cancer.

• Although African Americans are less likely to get skin cancer, they have more complications and higher death rates compared to whites.

• Skin cancer is often divided into two category: melanoma and non-melanoma.

Consuelo H. Wilkins,M.D., Medical Accuracy Editor

• Basal cell cancer and squamous cell cancer (both non-melanoma) are the two most common types of skin cancer. Squamous cell cancer is more common than basal cell cancer in people of color.

• Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer.

• Although melanin provides some protection from the harmful effects of the sun, everyone has some risk of skin can-

cer.

No one knows your body better than you so examine your skin on a regular basis but don’t be afraid to ask someone to help you look at hard to see places. If you notice something new or an old spot that seems to be changing, make a note of the size and location or take a picture of it. The American Academy of Dermatology and other organizations advise that you look at the ABCDEs of moles or other spots. If you have a mole or skin lesion with any of the following, see your health care provider. AAsymmetry; one half is different from the other. B- Borders are irregular or poorly defined. C- Color is different from one area to another. D- Diameter; size is more than 6mm (the size of a pencil eraser). E- Evolving; growing or changing shape or color.

To protect yourself from skin cancer, whenever possible, avoid direct sun exposure during peak sun hours, typically between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. If you will be in the sun for more than 15

minutes, use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher. Remember to reapply every two hours and after swimming. Wear a hat and clothing to protect your skin from the sun.

It is also important not to burn, to avoid tanning beds, and to be aware of any changes in your skin. Melanoma usually begins as an abnormal mole. For early detection, make sure to examine your skin once a month to look for any new growths or changes in existing lesions. If you identify a skin change or are concerned about your risk, talk to your doctor.

If you are concerned about getting enough vitamin D, taking a daily supplement of at least 400IU daily (800IU daily if you are older than 50 years).

Remember that everyone has some risk of getting skin cancer although blacks are less likely to develop it.

Consuelo H. Wilkins, M.D., is medical accuracy editor of The St. Louis American and associate professor of medicine and psychiatry, Division of Geriatrics and Nutritional Science, at Washington University – St. Louis

Food Technology magazine lists 14 foods that deliver research-documented health benefits to those who are trying to incorporate more nutritious foods into our diets.

1. Barley: 11 clinical trials spanning almost 20 years found that increased consumption of barley products can lower total and LDLcholesterol.

2.Quinoa and buckwheat: Research suggest that seeds and sprouts from both quinoa and buckwheat represent rich sources of polyphenol compounds for enhancing the nutrition value of foods such as gluten-free breads.

3. Brown rice: Substitution of brown rice for white rice may lower the risk of type 2 diabetes.

4. Rye: Rye is suggested to improve glycemic profiles and rye bread can be used to decrease hunger both before and after lunch when consumed at breakfast.

5. Almonds: A2007 study showed that 300 calories of almonds (sufficient to produce beneficial effects on cardiovascular risk factors) per day may be included in the diet with limited risk of weight gain. The study found that the fiber in the almonds blocked some of the fat calories from being absorbed.

6. Hazelnuts: Research shows that it is best to consume hazelnuts whole because many of its antioxidants are located in the hazelnut skin.

7. Pecans: Arecent 2010 study suggested that the vitamin E in pecans may provide neurological protection by delaying progression of motor neuron degeneration.

8. Pistachios: Pistachios are suggested to have anti-inflammatory properties according to a recent study.

9. Walnuts: Awalnut-enriched diet may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease in those with type 2 diabetes.

10. Black raspberries: A2010 study found black raspberries were highly effective in preventing intestinal tumor development in mice.

11. Blueberries: Whole blueberry smoothies consumed daily improved insulin sensitivity in obese, non-diabetic, and insulin resistant patients in a sixweek study.

12. Broccoli and cauliflower: Ahigh intake of broccoli and cauliflower may be associated with reduced risk of

14 healthy foods

aggressive prostate cancer.

13. Pomegranates: Apreliminary study suggested that pomegranate juice can help prevent a number of complica-

tions in kidney disease patients on dialysis.

14. Tomatoes: Asix-week study found that people with high-blood pres-

sure who consumed two servings of canned tomato products daily experienced a significant decrease in blood pressure.

HEALTH BRIEFS

Childhood obesity is an important factorin heart failure progression

Preliminary findings from the American Society of Echocardiography (ASE) report a negative relationship between childhood obesity and cardiac function in children. New non-invasive heart ultrasound techniques will help to identify changes in the heart muscle function that occurs before a child shows signs of cardiac problems.

Childhood obesity has been proven to be directly associated with increased cardiovascular risk factors and rates of premature death in adults. Studies have suggested that obesity and insulin resistance cause alterations in heart muscle metabolism and efficiency resulting in abnormal heart function.

“There is a great interest in identifying and studying factors that lead to cardiac dysfunction,” said Dr. Gautam Singh, a pediatric cardiologist and lead researcher of the study at the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. “Our ability to identify specific health risk factors in adults that are a result of childhood obesity will hopefully sound an alarm to the millions of Americans with children. It should be recognized that lifestyle and health choices in children may ultimately affect their long-term cardiac health as adults. Therefore, the prevention of adult heart disease should begin in childhood.”

Researchers studied glucose and insulin metabolism, and markers of heart muscle function. New echocardiogram (heart ultrasouand) techniques specifically examined shortening and lengthening of the heart muscle (strain/strain rate), as well as the twisting or torsion of the heart muscle among overweight and lean children.

Based on the data collected and analyzed in this study, ASE researchers concluded that obese children with insulin resistance —a condition where the natural hormone insulin becomes less effective in lowering blood sugars, setting the stage for diabetes— exhibited evidence of reduced shortening and twisting of the heart muscle,

which are early signs of impaired heart function in children. These results suggest that insulin resistance represents an important factor in the evolution of obesity-related cardiac dysfunction in children that may lead to obesity related heart failure in adults.

Alzheimer’s accelerated by a cigarette smoke, auto exhaust

There is growing evidence that exposure to a group of chemicals known as type-2 alkenes, which are found in the smoke inhaled from cigarettes, the exhaust of automobiles and even in french fries – can increase the chances of developing Alzheimer’s disease and other neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease.

“The thought process and memory deficits associated with Alzheimer’s disease appear to be due to the very early loss of function of nerve endings in the brain,” said Richard M. LoPachin, Ph.D., a neurochemist and director of research in the Department of Anesthesiology at Montefiore Medical Center and the Albert Einstein College of Medicine.

According to LoPachin, this excess means that these highly toxic chemicals are also being generated within nerve endings during the disease process that presumably initiates Alzheimer’s dementia. LoPachin believes that this internal production of the type-2 alkenes, along with external exposure to these chemicals (smoking, diet and other environmental factors), causes a perfect neurological storm – a doubly powerful type-2 alkene attack on brain nerve endings from outside the body and from with-in.

“This dual intoxication of nerve endings led us to conclude that daily environmental exposure to neurotoxic type-2 alkenes could increase the incidence of Alzheimer’s disease,” he said.

Why certain foods can be addictive

Can some people react to certain foods the same way an alcoholic or addict gets “hooked” on their substance of choice? Yes, according to a new study that will appear in the August 2011 print issue of Archives of General Psychiatry. Aresearch team at Yale University examined links between food addiction symptoms and neural activation in 48 young women ranging from lean to obese. They found that persons with an addictive-like eating behavior seem to have greater neural activity in brain regions similar to substance dependence.

“Based on numerous parallels in neural functioning associated with substance abuse and obesity, theorists have proposed that addictive processes may be involved in the etiology of obesity,” write the researchers. “As predicted, elevated [food addiction] scores were associated with greater activation of [brain] regions that play a role in encoding the motivational value of stimuli in response to food cues.”

The question, according to boomer-generation brother and sister authors Dian Griesel, Ph.D. and Tom Griesel, more specifically becomes, “Why do some people react with addictive tendencies when seeing or tasting a milkshake, candy bar or bag of chips yet not have a comparable reaction with a carbohydrate like fresh fruit, for example? Does a juicy steak produce addictive tendencies?” Their conclusion: These addictive reactions are most likely the result of the plethora of refined foods, modern packaged foods and un-natural combinations of foods we have been increasingly exposed to over the last 40 years. “We have no doubt that certain foods are addictive,” says Dian, who has spent the past 15 years working with drug development companies. “The real question is, ‘What is it that makes these foods so addictive?’”

Increasingly, the scientific literature suggests that sugar consumption, in any form, may be the culprit. The Griesels point out that our bodies are perfectly capable of consuming, processing and thriving on ìnaturalî foods. However, it is these totally unnatural man-made products that are causing the problems.

“The rise of obesity and other modern diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension, high triglycerides and hypoglycemia, to name a few— along with so-called ‘food addiction’—are all the end result of consuming too many of these ‘engineered’modern foods in our daily diets,” the Griesels say.

Tom says, “These modern foods are deliberately designed to stimulate and excite our taste buds and brains. They all contain refined carbohydrates which, after becoming nutritionally neutered via processing, are often produced with refined sweeteners—both real and artificial, fats and problematic trans-fats, unnaturally high amounts of dietary omega-6 fatty acids from vegetable and manufactured oils, salt, a cornucopia of artificial chemicals, dyes and additives that make these packaged items lethal to our health and addictive to many.”

The Griesels’conclusion: Refined and processed foods are hazardous to our health, particularly to those who have increased sensitivity to them. Work on satisfying your urges and cravings with the whole natural foods we were all designed to eat. Eat some fruit when the sweet craving strikes.

Gambling

on better employee health –and winning

By Sandra Jordan Of The St.Louis American

When it comes to employee health, the Casino Queen in East St. Louis, Illinois hedges its bet. For around 10 years, the casino’s ownership and management has contracted with Dr. Ken Rybicki, an internal medicine physician, who, along with a nurse and a medical assistant, help keep casino workers healthy by providing them with the convenience of an onsite and totally free medical clinic.

“We’ve evolved this set up here from occasionally seeing employees for their colds and flu’s to keeping them on the job to really a very aggressive disease management/wellness prevention center,” Rybicki says. “About three years ago, we put into place some really aggressive screening programs. Employees get screenings for cholesterol, diabetes, blood pressure, height, weight, prostate – if you’re in the right age-range and mammograms – and that’s free for every employee in the fall.”

Workers who have a health issue, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol or diabetes, are put into a disease management group to support them in their efforts to control its progression and help them maintain healthy lifestyles.

facility here, I saw a big decrease in those types of things,” Rybicki says.

“Then after that, it became non-smoking, so I don’t know that I’ve seen anything real different since then.”

Results of last year’s employee health screening show that the disease management groups are working. The employees’cholesterol levels are down, blood sugar levels in diabetics have improved and employees are healthier overall. And Rybicki says there has been a reduction in the overall cost for providing employee health care – a 20 percent reduction in its overall health insurance costs per employee.

“Although the Casino Queen is providing all these free services… their health care cost is going down because we are keeping people healthier,” he says.

“Although the Casino Queen is providing all these free services… their health care cost is going down because we are keeping people healthier.”

– Dr.Ken Rybicki

“If somebody’s got diabetes, they go into one of our programs for diabetes. We help them track their blood sugars; we give them free diabetes test strips and free monitors for their diabetes,” Rybicki explains. “And this year, we started free diabetes medicine for employees.”

They are working on developing a similar program for employees with asthma. Rybicki said when they had the boat – there were a lot more problems with employees with bronchitis and asthma. He says the high-tech air filtration system at the Casino has made a big difference.

“When we moved from the boat to the

“It’s a pretty rewarding program because, as a doctor, we are always used to getting people over their sickness – not as much as we should or like to – prevent their sickness,” Rybicki says. “And with the programs we have in place over here, over half of what we do is just getting people healthy and preventing their problems.”

There are about a dozen free medications for employees that they can get through the onsite clinic for free and also medications are delivered there for free.

“What we are doing here is a total health care for all employees who want to participate – and we’ve really made some headway into employee health,” Rybicki says. “The point is – we are saving employees – they are staying on the job; they don’t have to leave to go to the doctor; they are staying healthier; they are staying out of the emergency room.”

The employee plan health benefits are offered to employee spouses and dependents too. By gaming rules, no person under age 21 is allowed in the casino. Underage dependents are treated in a

by

Casino Queen employees have an onsite doctor to take care of their health needs,whether its common colds,injuries or preventive health – at no cost.The result is lower health costs for the employer,higher employee attendance and retention.

Photo

Wiley Price

The margarine vs. butterquestion Your Health Questions Matter

KLwants to know: Which is saferto eat – margarine orbutter?

The answercomes from Terese Scollard, M.B.A., R.D., L.D., regional clinical nutrition managerfor Providence Nutrition Services

A: Butter contains a lot of artery-clogging saturated fat, and margarine contains an unhealthy combination of saturated and trans fats, so the healthiest choice is to skip both of them and use liquid oils, such as olive, canola and safflower oil, instead.

If you want to use one or the other on occasion, margarine is the healthier choice

overall – as long as you choose the right type of margarine. Margarine comes in stick, tub and liquid forms now, and not all of them are created equal. Some stick margarines may be no better than butter in terms of their health effects. The best choices are soft or liquid margarines that have no (or very little) trans fat and less than 3 grams of saturated fat per serving.

Do you have a health-related question? Let us hear from you. Email your question to yourhealthmatters@stlamerican.com. Rather than a personal reply, a health professional will provide an answer that we will share with all readers in a future issue of Your Health Matters.

Thurs. June 16, 11:45 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., “Preparing OurFaith Communities forDisasters,” a faith based emergency preparedness conference at St. Louis University –DuBourg Hall – Refectory Room 157, 221 N. Grand in St. Louis. Space is limited to one person from the first 150 churches. Food and parking is provided. Registration begins May 1 – deadline is June 3. Churches can register by calling Cathy Harris at 314-977-8274 or email charri29@slu.edu.

Sat. June 18, 7 a.m. - 2nd Annual Ronald McDonald House Charities of Metro St. Louis’Bike Ride in Forest Park. The event has five race options: To ride, volunteer or for more information, visit www.rmhcridestl.com, 314-932-4146 or e-mail lfletcher@rmhcstl.com.

Sun. June 19, Katy Trail Father’s Day Family Bike Ride, to benefit prostate cancer research at Siteman

CALENDAR

Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine. Riders can start from a designated KATYTrailhead and ride to Defiance, Mo. Pre-registration is $10.00 ($15.00 day of ride). For more information, or to sign-up, go to www.fathersdaybikeride.com.

Wed. July 6, 5:30 p.m. - “AMatch for Mental Health” at the Dwight Davis Tennis Centerin Forest Park - to raise awareness of adolescent depression and suicide. Cocktail party at 5:30 with the opening season match between the St. Louis Aces and the Sacramento Capitals starting at 7:15 p.m. For more information, go to www.chadscoalition.org or call Lauren Ashley at 314-542-0400.

Sept. 13, 2nd Annual Health Missouri Health Literacy Summit, “Health Literacy Tools forBuilding a PatientCentered Health Home, Hilton Garden Inn, Columbia, Mo. Keynote speaker is Dr. Howard K. Koh, 14th assistant secretary for Health, U.S. Dept. of Health and

Human Services. Registration $150 ($175 after August 15). For more information, go to http://www.healthliteracymissouri.org.

Sat. Oct. 1, 8:30 a.m. - Sista Strut 2nd Annual 3K Breast CancerWalk at the Missouri History Museum in Forest Park. Individual pre-registration is $15. For more information, go to www.kmjm.com.

Sundays, 10 a.m., Alcoholics Anonymous Group 109 meets in the 11th floor conference room at Christian Hospital, 11133 Dunn Road at I270/Hwy. 367. This is an open meeting for alcoholics, drug addicts and their family and friends.

Mondays, 7 p.m., “Tobacco Free for Life” support group – free weekly meetings at St. Peters Mo. City Hall. Supported by SSM Cancer Care; RSVP initial participation to 636-947-5304.

Tuesdays, 6:30 – 8:00 p.m., Help fora

drug-free life - chemical dependency meeting. Call 314-839-3171.

Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m., STEPS Schizophrenia Support Group

This nationally recognized program provides education and support for those with schizophrenia. Group is facilitated by an experienced STEPS nurse. For more information, call 314-839-3171.

First Thursdays, 10 a.m. – Family Support Group by NAMI St. Louis, The Alliance on Mental Illness at the Grace Hill MurphyO’Fallon Health Center, 1717 Biddle St. No registration needed; no cost. For more information, contact Allen Daniel, 314-814-8579.

Free psychiatric and chemical dependency evaluations are confidential at the Christian Hospital Center for Mental Health. Call 314839-3171.

EMPLOYEE HEALTH

Continued from page 6

paramedic room that is outside of the employee entrance.

Rybicki serves as the primary care doctor for many casino employees and he said they are eligible to visit him at his offices in St. Louis and in Belleville, Illinois at no cost because they are Casino Queen employees.

With additional measures in place, such as healthier choices for employee dining and vending options, there are hopes that the health trend will continue.

“The good thing about being here is that people will drop by anytime and just say, ‘Hey, I’m on my break – can you check my pressure?’‘Can we weigh in?’It’s gotten very popular,” he says.

Through their own version of “Biggest Loser” type staff weight challenges, Rybicki’s office is also helping employees lose and manage their weight.

“Last year we had 227 employees participate. It was a four-month program and they lost a total of 920 pounds, so almost half a ton was lost here,” he says. “The winner got a trip for two to Vegas with the flight and hotel and everything.”

A2009 Mercer study reports 34 percent of companies with 500 employees or more offer healthcare onsite or near their facility. As a result, workers maintain better overall health, and each company sees an increase in productivity with a decrease in healthcare costs. As reported in the American Journal for Preventative Medicine, employers can see a return of $3 to $6 for each dollar spent over two to five years on employee health strategies.

Rybicki says other companies are taking an interest in what the Casino Queen is offering employees as health benefits. And he said it is very much a model for health reform.

“This is what they want with the Obama health care plan,” Rybicki says. “They want employers to really take charge and take care of their employees and help them become better and prevent their disease, and it’s interesting – despite their expense, they are saving money, so it’s a win-win.

YourHealth Matters

Abi-monthly special supplement of the St. Louis American

June 16, 2011

YourHealth Matters provides up-to-date information, from an African-American perspective, about one of the most important subjects in evryone’s life – their personal health.

Donald M. Suggs, President and Publisher

Kevin Jones, Senior Vice President, COO

Dina M. Suggs, Senior Vice President

Chris King, Editorial Director

Consuelo Wilkins, MD, Health Care Editor

Sandra Jordan, Health Reporter

Debbie Chase, Director of Health Strategy & Outreach

Sonia Dulaney, Onye Ijei, Barb Sills, Sales

Michael Terhaar, Art/Production Manager

Angelita Jackson, Cover Design

Wiley Price, Photojournalist

Olive oil in yourdiet may prevent stroke

Anew study suggests that consuming olive oil may help prevent a stroke in older people. The research is published in the June 15 online issue of Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology.

“Our research suggests that a new set of dietary recommendations should be issued to prevent stroke in people 65 and older,” said study author CÈcilia Samieri, PhD, with the University of Bordeaux and the National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM) in Bordeaux, France. “Stroke is so common in older people and olive oil would be an inexpensive and easy way to help prevent it.”

For the study, researchers looked at the medical records of 7,625 people ages 65 and older from three cities in France: Bordeaux, Dijon and Montpellier. Participants had no history of stroke. Olive oil consumption was categorized as “no use,” “moderate use” such as using olive oil in cooking or as dressing or with bread, and “intensive use,” which included using olive oil for both cooking and as dressing or with bread. Samieri said the study participants mainly used extra virgin olive oil, as that is 98 percent of what is available in France.

After a little over five years, there were 148 strokes.

After considering diet, physical activity, body mass index and other risk factors for stroke, the study found that those who regularly used olive oil for both cooking and as dressing had a 41 percent lower risk of stroke compared to those who never used olive oil in their diet (1.5 percent in six years compared to 2.6 percent).

Olive oil has been associated with potentially protective effects against many cardiovascular risk factors, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and obesity.

St. Louis American Health Editor’s note: Often people who consume olive oil do so instead of consuming butter, margarine or other oils. Remember that all oils are fats so use them sparingly.

TVs in children’s bedrooms may be at greaterrisk forobesity

Anew small study of Hispanic children found that those with TVs in their bedrooms were more likely to be overweight.

“Bedroom TVs lead to more screen time, sedentary behavior, less parental support of physical activity and increased fast food intake,” said Du Feng, Ph.D., lead study author.

Feng is a professor of human development and family studies at Texas Tech University. Her study appears in the May-June issue of the American Journal of Health Promotion.

The researchers sent surveys to 315 West Texas parents of 597 children ages 5 to 9 in kindergarten, first and second grade. They collected information on children’s weight, age, gender and body mass index.

“Seventy percent of the children had a TVin their bedroom, and 32 percent were already overweight or they were at risk for becoming overweight due to unhealthy behaviors,” Feng said.

Children with TVs in their bedrooms spent 3.5 hours a day in front of the screen compared with 2.58 hours of daily watching by kids who did not have a TVin their room. The kids without personal TVs also had parents who encouraged physical activity.

Kids with their own TVs tended to drink more sugar-sweetened drinks, and eat fewer fruits and veggies and more fast food. However, while these behaviors contribute to obesity, the researchers acknowledge that the study did not link definitively bedroom TVwatching with being overweight or having a higher body mass index.

However, few would argue that easier TVaccess for children is a good thing.

“You wouldn’t allow a stranger to sit alone with your child in their bedroom and to try to sell them things, would you?” said Dr. Dipesh Navsaria, a professor of pediatrics at University of Wisconsin-Madison.

“The exposure of children to unhealthy lifestyles and food marketing by watching TVcan dramatically exacerbate the situation,” said Navsaria, who practices in a community health center with a largely Latino population. “Another aspect that is important is the disruption of sleep: There is little stopping a child from turning a television at any time of night if they wake up and have disrupting sleep patterns. Without good sleep, obesity risks increase.”

Besides removing the bedroom TV, family health education is important. “I have seen multiple times when a parent felt that a TVin a child’s bedroom was not a good idea, but they didn’t feel empowered to remove it unless and until I told them it was important they do so,” he said.

New technology could provide a teachable moment. “With the change to high-definition TVs, parents may be replacing their current TVs and putting older TVs in their children’s bedrooms,” Feng said. “This is good time to educate parents about the American Academy of Pediatrics’recommendation for two hours or less of daily TV.”

Source:Health Behavior News Service

Breast Cancer

Gateway to Hope offers no-charge medical and reconstructive treatment for uninsured breast cancer patients in Missouri. Contact 314-569-1113.

Behavioral

Christian Hospital offers free and confidential psychiatric and chemical dependency evaluations at the Christian Hospital Center for Mental Health. The hospital has a geriatric psychiatric unit dedicated to serving the mental health needs of geriatric patients. For more information, call 314-839-3171.

Christian Hospital Key Program is for patients with chronic mental illness. The program offers support and education to prevent increased severity of symptoms and to reduce the need for inpatient re-hospitalization. Call confidentially to 314-839-3171 or 1-800-4474301.

Diabetes

SSM St. Mary’s Health Center provides free, open-to-the-public Diabetes Support Group sessions the second

HEALTH RESOURCES

Tuesday of every month from 6 – 7 p.m., overseen by certified diabetes educators to address health management issues. It’s located at Meeting Room 1 on the second floor, 6420 Clayton Rd. in St. Louis. To register, call toll free 866-SSM-DOCS (866-776-3627).

Free, diabetes education program held at various locations by the Diabetes Network of St. Louis. Participants will be offered testing and support for diabetes control. Six sessions will cover monitoring your blood sugar, controlling complications of diabetes, taking care of your feet, living a healthy life through diet and exercise, and personal goal setting. Call Coco Bopp 314-747-9533 for more information.

Dental

Free Dental Hygiene Clinic - No charge dental exams, x-rays, cleanings and other dental services for children and adults provided by dental students at Missouri College. Patients needing more extensive dental work (like fillings, crowns, etc.) will be referred to local dentists. For an appointment, call 314-768-7899.

Fitness

Coed Jazzercise - $1 per session on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at Memorial Tabernacle Christian Life Center, 1350 S. Lafayette in Florissant, Mo. (behind Yacovelli’s). For more information, call 314-921-6825.

Information

Missouri 2-1-1 offers referral and information on a wide range of social service and helpful resources. Call 2-1-1.

Medical

St. Louis ConnectCare offers walk-in services Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and most holidays. For more information, call 314-879-6300.

Salam Free Saturday Clinic, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Isom Community Center at Lane Tabernacle CME Church, 916 N. Newstead, St. Louis, Mo. for those who are uninsured. For more information, call 314-533-0534.

Nutrition

Food Outreach provides food, meals and nutritional education/ counseling to eligible persons living with HIV/AIDS or cancer in St. Louis. For more information, call 314-652-3663 or visit www.foodoutreach.org.

Angel Food Ministries operates in hundreds of churches nationwide and offers heat and serve meals, canned and fresh food boxes at a reduced cost. Find the nearest locations by zip code at www.angelfoodministries.com.

Prescription Cost Help

St. Louis ConnectCare Retail

Pharmacy – offers a $4 generic prescription program. Hours are 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Mon. – Fri., no weekends or holidays. Located at 5535 Delmar Blvd. in St. Louis, Call 314-879-6208.

Schnucks Pharmacies – now offers certain prescription prenatal vitamins for free and offers no-cost generic prescription antibiotics at select locations.

Hairdo ‘don’ts’

By Robert Folan-Johnson Healthy Living News

There may be some hair don’ts for certain hairdos.

For example, a study was just published in the Archives of Dermatology about a problem among older AfricanAmerican women, the permanent baldness condition known as “central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia” (CCCA). The study showed CCCAmay be related to both diabetes and scalp scarring caused by certain hair styles.

Doctors at the Cleveland Clinic surveyed 326 African-American women on their medical and hair grooming histories. CCCAand signs of scalp scarring were seen in more than half (59 percent). Among that group, type 2 diabetes was significantly higher – linking it to CCCA baldness. But hair grooming practices such as hair weaves and braiding also seemed to contribute to CCCA. That is because they are frequently worn for long periods of time, often to hide hair loss the study noted. That can irritate the scalp, leading to infections and even more scarring and baldness.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recently announced another hair “don’t” – don’t use some hair straightening products. That is because, when used, they can release dangerous levels of formaldehyde gas into the air. One product, Brazilian Blowout, was taken off the market for doing just that. In fact, even though Brazilian Blowout was labeled “formaldehyde-free,” its formaldehyde concentration was 10 percent, far exceeding the legal levels of .2 percent. And that was only discovered after an Oregon hair stylist reported developing nosebleeds, eye irritation, and breathing problems when using it.

But there are still other beauty products out there that can be risky to use. That is because they often use chemicals that, when heated, also release formaldehyde into the air. These chemicals include methylene glycol, formalin, methylene oxide, among others. By any other name, though, they can still be dangerous. To make sure you and your favorite beauty salon are minimizing exposure to air born toxic chemicals, go to www.osha.gov.

A recent study linked hair weaves and braiding to the permanent baldness condition known as “central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia” (CCCA) because they are frequently worn for long periods of time.