According to celeb gossip site The Gos sip Jacker, St. Louis’ own rap star given the cold shoulder at a Los Angeles club on Saturday. Sources told the site that the popular Playhouse club in LA turned Nelly away – claiming that the club was too crowded. But according to the source, a path was cleared moments later for a basketball wife and a real house wife.
Fantasia’s belly on the beach ignites baby rumors
Pregnancy rumors are “float ing” around Fantasia Barrino again thanks to new paparazzi photos of the singer frolicking in Barbados with married boy friend Antwaun Cook, whose own marriage disintegrated
last year in the wake of his headlinemaking affair with the “American Idol” star. In the pictures, the singer’s midsection is noticeably round and swollen. Fantasia has continued to attribute the change in her body as weight gain for when the singer tackles the role of Mahalia Jackson in an upcoming film, but the photos appear to suggest otherwise.
Barrino, 26, had performed a concert on the island over the weekend and stayed on for a few days with a group of family and friends, including her nine-year-old daughter Zion.
Halle Berry hits baby-daddy with unfit father claims
TMZ is reporting that Halle Berry went to family Wednesday morning (Jun. 29, complaining that Gabriel Aubrey violated the custody agreement over their 3-year-old daughter Nahla
To reinforce her point, her lawyer submitted a
lengthy court document claiming Aubrey has put Nahla at risk, the website reported.
Sources told TMZ that Berry is concerned for Nahla when she’s in the care of Aubrey. “Our sources would not be specific about the violations, but we’re told it has to do with requirements Gabriel was supposed to follow when he had custody of Nahla,” TMZ stated.
“The lengthy documents go into great detail about Gabriel’s parenting skills, claiming there was once an incident overseas when Gabriel allegedly neglected Nahla, imperiling her safety.
“Halle wanted the judge to find Gabriel in violation of the custody order. Gabriel was not in court today, and the judge set a hearing on the matter for later.”
Bishop Morton blasts Eddie Long
ing completely mum after settling a sexual coercion scandal involving four young men from his church, New Birth Cathedral (New Birth) in Georgia.
An audio recording of Morton addressing the matter in a Father’s Day message appears on YouTube. (Scroll down to listen)
Indicating Long stopped returning his phone calls, Morton said in the recording:
Bishop Paul Morton
Bishop Paul S. Morton, founder of the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship (FGBCF) – the church that ordained Eddie Long as a bishop – has openly rebuked him for remain-
“Tell me something … those that have stood with you. Tell us something. Tell your church something. We all make mistakes and come short of the glory of God, but tell us something … I know there’s a gag order, but you can apologize.”
Morton rebuked Long and said the embattled pastor must repent if he wants forgiveness, based on the authority of scripture (Luke 17: 3-4).
“I can’t forgive somebody that does not repent,” said Morton, pastor of Greater St. Stephens FGBCF in New Orleans. Members are reportedly leaving New Birth in droves. Bishop Morton understandably wants the pastor he promoted to Bishop to take responsibility for the fall out.
Sources: TMZ.com, Allhiphop.com, Eurweb. com, The Gossip Jacker
Study war no more?
Last week President Obama announced his process for troop withdrawal in Afghanistan. To the average ear, the news sounded positive, decisive. “We will bring home a total of 33,000 troops by next summer,” proclaimed the president. But if we look at the U.S. history of war and Obama’s war policies, we will see that there’s nothing to really shout about.
Military historian Chalmers Johnston has said that the vast network of American military bases touches every continent except Antarctica. He hints that the American people are “ignorant” of the full scope of the proitable military-industrial complex because of the policies of secrecy and national security that cloak speciic information. However, it is estimated that there are about 1,000 U.S. military installations around the world. We are hard-wired to believe that we need all this military might to defend this country, yet there are countries that seem to be doing just ine without a standing military (like Costa Rica) or with a limited military (like Iceland).
One of the main reasons that we in the U.S. need to understand this better is because of what the American military does in all those places. The public relations stories of troops building a school or helping a kid learn English are decoys to prevent us from seeing the cultural, ecological and inancial destruction that is being done in the name of democracy, nation-building or freedom.
Military personnel seek distractions from the torments of war. These include being involved in illicit crimes such as drugs, prostitution and gun-running, along with the rape of both local and military women. There’s nothing more dangerous than a drugged or drunk person with an AK-47 or an FIM-92 Stinger, except maybe an ex-military person in our community with post-traumatic stress syndrome who’s trained to kill.
For those following the U.S. aggression in Afghanistan, we know that the withdrawal of 33,000 troops will only take us to the pre-surge numbers. The date of 2014 that was set for completing U.S. combat operations and turning it over to the Afghan government is quietly being described as an “aspirational goal,” meaning it gives our government some wiggleroom. We have seen many examples of changing goals of occupation from peace-keeping to nation-building. These are disguises for stealing people’s earning power, land and resources. Peoples around the world are getting sick and tired of being sick and tired of this military policy and their own leaders’ complicity with it. Uprisings will be the order of the day for a long while. In 1940, John Work wrote the Negro Spiritual “Study War No More.” Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. echoed the sentiment when he opposed the Vietnam War. In the late 1980s, Blues legend Willie Dixon and his grandson penned an updated version of the song. Dixon felt that people had studied war so long that they didn’t know anything else.
It’s time for all freedomloving people to denounce wars and to force their governments to respect the lives,
lands and liberty of all people. The international arms race can be curtailed if the biggest bullies are put in check. These bullies must be made to learn some different alternatives for
resolving conlict and be forced to systematically dismantle the military-industrial complex in place of an economy based upon meeting human needs and environmental interests.
Yes, Brother Dixon, that will be “one mighty day when we hear world leaders say, “Ain’t gonna study war no mo’, we’re giving it up, we’re gonna let it go.”
Jamala Rogers
President Barack Obama
EDITORIAL /COMMENTARY
Development bill will be ready for Nixon
A conservative Democrat, Gov. Jay Nixon has solidiied support in his own party with recent vetoes of pet Republican bills that would disenfranchise many older, younger, minority and poorer voters and that would limit legal remedies for workplace discrimination. He has built up broad political capital, with a primary challenge from within his own party all but unimaginable. It is now time for Nixon to show leadership in economic development that is consistent with his proven leadership in these other important areas. It is time for Nixon to call for a special legislative session and at least share in some of the credit for completing the economic development bill that includes the Aerotropolis market incentives.
As many of us have reminded the governor, Nixon has taken the safe path of waiting for the Republicans who dominate the Missouri Legislature to resolve their differences over tax credits, the main reason the bill died. Increasingly it seems likely that Missouri Republicans will make a complex set of deals over all of the contested tax credits. State Senators Rob Mayer, Eric Schmitt and Brad Lager and state Representatives Steve Tilley and John Diehl have shown the leadership needed to get these deals done. It is our understanding that if Nixon calls the Legislature back to session, he will have an economic development bill to sign by the end of the special session – and he will have played a crucial leadership role in completing legislation that has potential to shape the destiny of this region and state.
The market incentives deined in the Aerotroplis legislation are badly needed in this highly competitive global economy. The legislation shows any foreign county – not just China, but China would be a great place to start – that if they use St. Louis as a freight hub, there is a beneit. This legislation would tell China and the
many other nations that make major exports to the U.S. – India, Vietnam, Brazil, South Africa – that if they make St. Louis a distribution and high-value assemblage location, we can lower their costs. Farmers and manufacturers in Missouri have things to sell that could be put back on those airplanes for the return lights. People will be needed to do this new work – jobs in Missouri will be created.
Importantly, the Aerotroplis market incentives are triggered incentives, consistent with those included in the landmark Quality Jobs package that Greg Steinhoff steered through the administration of Gov. Matt Blunt – who was just as hesitant then as Nixon appears to be now. Missouri then faced the reality that competing states had deal-closing funds where oficials could write checks to companies to entice their business, while this state had nothing. Starting from ground zero, Steinhoff and his team crafted triggered market incentives requiring that the incentive be proportionate to the economic impact of the new business and they not be awarded to a company until it had produced the jobs. Aerotropolis mandates this same, rational approach to building new business at the St. Louis airport and in satellite zones involved in freight business. The legislation also imposes annual limits and sunset periods on the tax credits – everything the tax hawks in the Legislature required. This is sound policy. There is no reason for stubbornness. The one missing piece is for this state’s chief executive oficer to grasp the importance of this legislation and to act immediately. By the time the Republican super-majority meets the Democratic governor in Jefferson City, we predict, the governor will have a bill that is all but ready for his signature. That signature may be historic in improving the economy in this region and state.
COMMENTARY
Gov. Jay Nixon makes remarks during the Public Policy Speaker Series at the Regional Chamber and Growth Association in St. Louis on June 23.
UPI/Bill Greenblatt
The Way I See It - A Forum for Community Issues Justice, mercy and Eric Clemmons
What do you think prisons are for?
Punishment and deterrence, of course. Plus education and rehabilitation, so that prisoners can be productive citizens when they are released.
How can we tell when prison has accomplished its goals? What measurements are used? And, do those who hold the keys to the prison cell understand that sometimes “justice” and “mercy” go hand in hand? The case of Eric Clemmons is an interesting one to watch for those who are concerned about both concepts. Clemmons has been in prison since 1982, when he was involved in a ight that resulted in the death of a 21-year-old man. Clemmons was 20 at the time; when he learned that the victim had died, he turned himself in to the police. He had no previous criminal record.
Thus began the long and troubling story of Eric Clemmons and the Missouri criminal justice system. He was charged with capital murder and sentenced to 50 years without the possibility of parole.
The idea that Clemmons was overcharged has troubled many people.
Former St. Louis Circuit Attorney Dee Joyce Hayes wrote to Clemmons’ mother: “I am somewhat surprised that
Eric was charged with capital murder.”
Justice Myron H. Bright of the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals wrote: “This is an unusual case. The evidence indicates that Clemmons acted with some justiication for his conduct, and evidence which surfaced in a different trial casts grave doubt on whether Clemmons struck the blows that killed the victim.”
As if the costs of being overcharged were not high enough, Clemmons nearly paid the ultimate price while in prison. In 1985 he was wrongfully accused of the murder of a fellow inmate. When he was inally granted a trial on this charge, it took a jury only one hour to ind him not guilty of the inmate murder. By this time, he had spent 13 years on death row. Eric Clemmons is now 48-years-old and he has spent the last 28 years in prison. This seems like justice enough for some St. Louis attorneys, who recently iled a petition for executive clemency for Clemmons with the Missouri Board of Probation and Parole. If the board approves, the petition will then move to the desk of Missouri Governor Jay Nixon. Prison has actually done what it is supposed to do for Eric Clemmons, the petitioners argue. He has stayed out of trouble, gotten his GED, taken numerous classes and worked in almost every job available. The petition includes 30 pages of certiicates of achievement in academic, psychological,
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
CORRECTION
Our recent report on the “Aerotropolis” legislation inaccurately stated that $120 million of its tax incentives would go towards paying interest on loans for new construction around the airport. That provision was initially in the Senate version of the legislation, but was removed as the bill moved forward. We regret the error.
Why three more years of war?
Some heard a declaration of victory, others an admission of defeat. The many contradictions in President Obama’s speech about Afghanistan last Wednesday night were perhaps intended to obscure the bottom line: Tens of thousands of American troops will remain for at least three more years, some of them will be maimed or killed, and Obama offered no good reason why. The only debate within the administration, it appears, was whether to bring home the troops far too slowly or not at all. Obama decided on the too-slowly option.
A year from now, we will have withdrawn the more than 30,000 “surge” troops Obama ordered into combat 18 months ago. But this means nearly 70,000 U.S. troops will remain in Afghanistan – about double the number deployed there when Obama took ofice.
A “process of transition,” in which Afghans take responsibility for the country’s security while Americans come home, is supposed to be complete in 2014. But it sounds as if some sort considerable deployment will remain in a “support” role. In other words, there will be three more years of war followed by a long-term presence of unspeciied magnitude.
Why? After a decade of war, what can we possibly gain by slogging ahead?
In the speech, Obama gave a
host of reasons to consider our mission in Afghanistan accomplished. Al-Qaeda’s leadership has been decimated. Osama bin Laden is dead. The Taliban has been ousted from power. The capacity of the freely elected, U.S.-backed Afghan government to ight the war has grown.
“The goal that we seek is achievable,” Obama said, “and can be expressed simply: no safe-haven from which al-Qaeda or its afiliates can launch attacks against our homeland or our allies.” By that standard, we’ve succeeded. The troops can come home tomorrow – all of them.
If, on the other hand, the goal is to leave behind a country that can never be used as a terrorist base, then success is impossible. No such airtight guarantee could be made about Canada, let alone Afghanistan. Have the president and his generals forgotten that much of the planning for the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks took place in Germany?
Three years from now, the Afghan government will still be thoroughly corrupt. The Taliban will still have considerable support, based on ethnicity and kinship, in the Pashtun heartland. Distrust of central authority will still be a deining national characteristic.
We have already done all that is within our power to eliminate the terrorist threat that Afghanistan once posed. It is not within our power to impose lasting peace and prosperity. Obama acknowledged that this can only be achieved through a political settlement. But only Afghans can make – and keep – such a deal.
In essence, we are using military means to pursue political ends that lie beyond our reach. Obama should realize that this makes no sense.
Perhaps the most disheartening thing about Obama’s speech was the absence of fresh thinking, or even clear thinking. It was hard to tell whether he was sticking with his counterinsurgency strategy or switching to a counterterrorism approach, or a little of both. There was no evidence he had considered the possibility that the war is being perpetuated not by rational pursuit of our national interests, but by its own inertia.
Nor was there any indication that he had thought through the melliluous passages designed to put the war into a broader foreign policy context. We cannot “retreat from our responsibility” but also cannot be “overextended,” and therefore we must “chart a more centered course.” We must be “as pragmatic as we are passionate, as strategic as we are resolute.” If you have any idea what this means, please let me know.
Obama did say that when military intervention is called for, it should be international rather than unilateral. As an example, he cited Libya, where NATO is nominally in charge. He must have missed the speech by his outgoing defense secretary, Robert Gates, who warned that NATO is devolving into a toothless joke.
The president was crystal clear on just one point: For now, the war goes on. Eugene Robinson’s email address is eugenerobinson@ washpost.com.
Recognizing the community
I enjoyed attending the St. Louis American Foundation’s Salute to Excellence in Health Care Awards Luncheon It was everything I expected – a irst-class event that does a wonderful job of highlighting and celebrating the accomplishments of our region’s leading African-American health care professionals and their afiliated organizations.
It was a privilege to learn about community and health care leaders who value and take pride in serving the people of our community, and through their involvement and dedication are committed to making the St. Louis region a better place for all of us. Each of this year’s awardees is truly remarkable.
I would like to thank you and the foundation for recognizing the BESt Pharmacy Summer Institute as the 2011 Health Care Advocacy Organization of the Year. I’m proud of our collaboration with Express Scripts and Barnes-Jewish Hospital to address diversity in the profession of pharmacy. As always, I look forward to working with you to strengthen our region and our college, now and in the future.
John A. Pieper, president St. Louis College of Pharmacy
Hoodwinked again?
Recently a well-know New York politician was found to be indulging in inappropriate sexual escapades via the World Wide Web. This was especially troubling to many American citizens because of the serious state of affairs we face.
religious and restorative justice areas. He has written a letter of apology to the parents of his victim, asking for their mercy and forgiveness.
A psychiatrist has stated that Clemmons’ “positive attitude and desire to contribute to society bodes well for a good future prognosis.” There is nothing that would cause him to pose a risk to others, or anything that would hinder his reintegration to the community.
He has a loving family and the promise of a job waiting for him when he is released. Eric Clemmons committed a dreadful crime. He has been punished for it. He has made amends to the extent that the prison environment will permit. Does he have to wait until he is 70 years old before the state of Missouri gives him a second chance?
One hopes that the Board of Probation and Parole and Gov. Jay Nixon will, at this point, ind mercy to be the more compelling argument. Readers who would like to support Eric Clemmons‘ petition for executive clemency are invited to write the Missouri Board of Probation and Parole, 3400 Knipp Dr., Jefferson City, MO 65109, and the Honorable Jeremiah Nixon, P.O. Box 720, Jefferson City, MO 65105. Barbara L. Finch is a writer, former public relations consultant and cofounder of Women’s Voices Raised for
(www.womensvoicesraised.
These affairs of serious nature, our economy and foreign affairs, are daily and sometimes hourly reported on. And while these are important, the essence of our ability to succeed on these areas is a matter of character.
Yes America, as you get prepared for election 2012, ponder this question: Why do we continue to get had, hoodwinked and bamboozled into wasting our money on fellow citizens who won’t put “We the people” irst?
Allif H. Dove St. Louis
Self-imposed slumber
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt told the black leadership of his day that they must force his ofice to do what they desire. This is true for President Obama as well. Left to himself he will straddle the political fence. We must force him to take a stand.
Standing by idle and wishing that he will do the right thing is a proven recipe for heartbreak and disenfranchisement. Failure to become an active voice will result in social, political and economic disaster. We here on Main Street will continue to suffer the highest rates of unemployment, the highest rates of “health without care,” the highest rates of death by those charged to serve and protect us, the highest rate of family homelessness, etc., unless we rise from our self-imposed slumber.
Brother Greg Witherspoon Via email
Deepest sympathy
Michael & Marilyn Broughton Green Park
To all our brothers and sisters at The St. Louis American newspaper: We wish to express our deepest sympathy and profound sadness with regard to the tragic death of your colleague and friend, Paul Reiter. Although belated, our condolences are heartfelt. We pray that the grace and peace of our Lord and Savior be with you, your loved ones and all who mourn the loss of Paul, God’s servant. And for the future: May the God of hope ill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overlow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit (Romans 15:13).
Guest Columnist Barbara L. Finch
Columnist Eugene Robinson
Flo Valley seeks host families
St. Louis Community College-Florissant Valley needs families to open their homes to 18 international students arriving with the Scholarships for Education and Economic Development (SEED) program. The students will arrive in August for the 2011-2012 school year.
SEED is an international scholarship program administered by Georgetown University’s Center for Intercultural Education and Development in Washington, D.C., and sponsored by the U.S. Agency for International Development. It is designed to support economic and social development in Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean.
Upon arrival, the students will live with host families within reasonable commuting distance to the college. Host families will provide the student with adequate room and board with the help of a monthly stipend. They will also assist the student in the process of learning about and adapting to U.S. culture, the local community and the English language.
All kinds of families are selected to host SEED students. Married couples with or without children, single parents, and singles without children as well as families with teenagers are encouraged to participate as hosts. For more information, contact Jeanette Fonseca at 314513-4324.
Grant will help clean up North County creek
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has awarded $19,175 to the Greenway Network Inc. to develop a watershed management plan for the Watkins Creek subwatershed in northeastern St. Louis County. The watershed includes the communities of Black Jack, Glasgow Village, Spanish Lake and Bellefontaine Neighbors.
Watkins Creek is a modified tributary to the Mississippi River emerging some 5.7 miles west of its confluence and located in a suburban area. Due to rapid growth in the Watkins Creek Watershed, the stream is severely degraded and instable.It is on the Missouri 2010 list of impaired waters for bacteria and chlorides caused by pollution from stormwater runoff.
The watershed management plan will help protect and improve water quality in the Watkins Creek sub-watershed by identifying pollutant sources, recommending conservation practices, setting goals and a timeline, and establishing a monitoring program.The grant will help fund public planning meetings, personnel expenses and watershed assessments activities.
The Greenway Network will provide a match contribution of $13,650 over the life of the project bringing the total cost to $32,825.The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency - Region 7 has provided partial funding for this project under Section 319 of the Clean Water Act.The project is expected to be completed by June 30, 2012. Partners in this collaborative effort include The Confluence Project, Missouri American Water Company, Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District and East-West Gateway Coordinating Council.
For more information, contact the Water Protection Program at P.O. Box 176, Jefferson City, MO 65102 or call 800-361-4827 or 573-751-1300.
Clay congratulates Freeman
U.S. Rep. Wm. Lacy Clay (D–Missouri) congratulated nationally acclaimed civil rights attorney and St. Louis community leader Frankie Muse Freeman, who will be honored with the Spingarn Medal, the NAACP’s highest award for lifetime achievement, on July 28 at the NAACPnational convention in Los Angeles.
“Frankie Freeman is a legal legend whose contributions as a civil rights attorney and as the first female member of the U.S. Civil Rights Commission changed this country forever,” Clay said.
“Frankie has been a good friend and mentor of mine for almost 30 years.Her inspired advocacy laid the groundwork for the Federal Voting Rights Act, ended racial discrimination in public housing, and provided dedicated oversight of the St. Louis Public Schools and the voluntary desegregation plan. She is truly a national treasure.”
Needed: fosterparents fordogs
The St. Louis Senior Dog Project is looking for volunteers to foster dogs until they find forever homes. This position requires that you walk, feed and love the dog as well as attend two adoption events a month. The project pays for vet and grooming while the foster is in your care. The rewards are endless when you see your foster go home with their new family. Please contact us for more information or you can fill out an application at http://www.stlseniordogproject.org/. While there, check out our dogs that are looking for their forever homes. We do not have a shelter, just the goodness of people’s hearts and homes like yours. Join us.
Not yourboy
By Ruth-Miriam Garnett
I enjoy quoting myself.
Recall, I translated Birther catchphrases:“Obama is a noncitizen-elitist-overspending-Muslim-socialist.” I tried as well illuminating white supremacist backlash:“If I can’t run it, nobody’s running it,” and cited a sinister pattern among leadership:America’s over; I’m taking the money and running.”
A2008 photo by Wiley Price shows AME pastors laying hands on candidate Obama, cementing my belief that God’s hands were on our president and that his leadership in the fractious milieu of American politics was an anointing.
Consider the impressive outcomes of meticulous planning and execution of a brilliant mind:health care legislation passed; significant gains during a lame duck session; the auto industry salvaged.(I make no consideration at present as to whether targeting bin Laden was outside the president’s aforementioned anointing; I make none with regard to American drones circling the Mideast).
I believe that God will continue to work through this man to provide a future for this country and that, despite the malaise amid portions of citizenry, America’s blessings will proliferate well beyond psychic distress and white supremacists’evils.
Barack is no Dr. King.Dr. King was no Jesus Christ.Ever notice how imperfection is used to achieve perfection?
White majorities of Wisconsin and Ohio recalling elected officials may not have Donald Trump’s self-professed compatibility with “the blacks,” predating of course his public berating of affirmative action, chapter two of a remarkably narcissistic hissy fit.Despite this, self-actualized white majorities work impressively for the common good. It is important and obvious that many Americans have not abandoned democracy, even when defining self-interest in complete opposition to each other. Said ideals come as close to seeing God’s face in every human as is humanly possible.I marvel, contemplating a higher power working through labyrinthine crises and manifesting outcomes initially unperceived, infrequently punditry’s labor.
As someone who shouts in church and stays glued whenever possible to news, this is my assessment of Barack Obama.For three decades, I hoped for establishment of a sovereign African-American nation during my lifetime, convinced that people whose validation insists on my inferiority are a waste of my time.
As with the import of Gil Scott Heron’s classic, “Winter In America,” I believed a future of more fully realized American ideals did not exist. I have learned from a mixed-race (whatever that is) president to discern an America I had eschewed.
If you don’t believe this man is holding cards to be ultimately played with laser efficacy, guess I’m not your girl.
Ruth-Miriam Garnett is a poet, novelist and essayist. Her newest book is Concerning Violence, New & Selected Poems (Onegin 2010). Ruth can be reached directly at ruthm712@aol.com.
RuthMiriam Garnett
ARCHIBALD
Continued from A1 organizations were solicited for proposals and expressions of interest, we made sure we had somebody there at the first meeting with their hands up first. We were not the first venue to show it, but we were first on the list. The exhibit is a journey of 300 or 400 years of African and African-American history. From an object standpoint, there are African art objects that Dr. Suggs tells me are of extremely rare and beautiful quality. It has the African cultural background to the enforced enslavement of African people – for instance, the doors from a castle where people were imprisoned before shipment. There are some macabre instruments of slavery. And there are some just amazing things, like Langston Hughes’original manuscript and typewriter. It has the real stuff in it. It also documents the ways African Americans have persisted and achieved and made huge contributions, despite all the obstacles placed in their way. The message of the exhibit is these are really strong people who learned to be strong and had to be strong and who represent in many ways the best of what humans are. For people of African descent, we are looking at something really empowering that underscores all the things we know to be true. For people who are not of African descent, this is an opportunity to stand in the shoes of African Americans and view the world from their extraordinary perspective.
CAMPAIGN
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paign. The society recognizes African Americans who donate
The exhibit is set up with a quote from W.E.B. Du Bois: “Would America be America without our Negro citizens?” The answer the exhibit gives is a resounding, “No!” To be American is to be an inheritor of the AfricanAmerican experience. I wanted to bring it here because we are looking at a community that self-evidently is grasping at all kinds of fixes (and I don’t mean to minimize them), whether it be a cargo hub or attempting to attract this business or that business, but in the end we need to create a community where people want to live. And people want to live in places where there is reason-
$1,000 or more to United Way annually. More than $19.75 million was invested in 61 of United Way’s partner agencies that primarily serve African Americans throughout United
able equity and people get along reasonably well and civic agendas are pursued with respect for democratic process and there is not a huge discrepancy between the richest people and the poorest people and where the community is not segregated. And when we look at St. Louis, deep down in our hearts and souls we know something is wrong that we are even reluctant to talk about, and that thing we are reluctant to talk about is the fact that our
“And that thing we are reluctant to talk about is the fact that our disparities too often are based on race and it is those disparities that hold us back.”
– Robert R.Archibald
disparities too often are based on race and it is those disparities that hold us back. So my hope in bringing the exhibit here is to make one more little effort to build bridges and get people to stand in each other’s shoes and build a better understanding of people in St. Louis of African descent. The
American: You must sometimes get pushback and hear from the public or from your board members, “Enough with race!”
Way’s 16-county service area last year. In a year when African Americans are experiencing double-digit unemployment rates, St. Louis remains first in African-American giving
among United Ways across the U.S.
“It’s a testament to how caring and generous our community is,” said Orvin Kimbrough, senior vice president, United Way of Greater
Robert R. Archibald: As for pushback, not very much, really. I get crank calls from racists, probably the same people call you as well, but not many. We come at it at different angles. Last year we did Are We So Different?, which was an anthropoligical look at the idea of race, at whether skin color makes genetic sense as a basis to make distinctions between people. It wasn’t about people of African descent specifically, but all people. American I AM celebrates a specific people and their history. Yes, you’re right, they do both deal with race, but it isn’t accusatory, we are not accus-
St. Louis. “Our African-American community wants to help, and does help build a healthier region each day through United Way, but we can and need to do even more.”
James Clark of Better Family Life,Inc.spoke Sunday in front of The Ambassador Nightclub,where a group of St.Louis and East St.Louis club owners and promoters gathered to support fundraising efforts for the family of the late, beloved Lee “The Roseman”Nixon. This committee also is part of the Put Down the Pistol campaign spearheaded by Clark and BFL.
ing anyone of racism. We are trying to overcome the barriers and boundaries and distinctions between people based on race.
People expect us to be a neutral forum for these debates and exhibits. If we don’t get some reaction, then what we’re doing is not very important. It’s important to deal with difficult topics but never to push people away, because in doing so you lose audience, and when you lose audience you lose effectiveness.
For more information, visit www.mohistory.org or call 314-746-4599.
To learn more or become a member of the 2011 African American Leadership Society, contact Kimbrough at 314539-4249.
Photo by Erica Brooks
BOBO
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“There was multiple staff, a school, a credit union and a music academy,” Pastor Bobo said.
“And in 1986 they were already computerized – which was a big leap. But staff and the members were gracious and kind and helped me every step of the way.”
Under his leadership, West Side now serves members and the community in two locations (at 4675 Page Blvd. in the city and in the former Target building on Dunn Road in North County), with 2,000 active members.
blessed by the opportunity they have afforded me to pursue my passion to minister around the world. It’s the best of both worlds. Not only do I have a great church, but I also have an extended ministry around the world.”
“If you make it a point to see pastor, please don’t go in there not sure of what you are going in there for. Take note cards, and don’t look at him,” the Rev. Jean Hardge said, as she offered love taps.
“He has tried to create a place that is inclusive –where the PhDs can sit with the G.E.D.s.”
– Rev.Earl Payton
Aresolution, a loving roast and rousing words were offered on his behalf at the gala.
In the resolution, the Rev. Rosalind Denson said that Pastor Bobo had ministered and conducted missionary work around the world while simultaneously serving as pastor in St. Louis. He has visited 30 nations, including Russia, Cuba twice and three international war zones.
MSD
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Pastor Bobo said, “I’m just and Dryden Avenue near Interstate 70 and Shreve.
Four to six inches of rain dropped in a 90-minute period and overwhelmed the system, said MSD’s spokesman Lance LeComb.
LeComb estimates that MSD will reimburse about $2 million in damages for about 35 homes in this area. However, LeComb said they have not found that the power outage caused backups in other areas, including Essex Place near Natural Bridge Avenue. These homes will not equally benefit from MSD’s full-damage compensation but receive a $2,400 maximum reimbursement.
“There is no system you can build to handle these kinds of storms,” he said. “It’s a function of too much rain coming out of the sky.”
However, some area residents are not convinced of MSD’s claims.
21st Ward Alderman
Antonio D. French and state Rep. Jamilah Nasheed hosted a town hall meeting last night with MSD officials to address their concerns. Another meeting takes place today (Thursday, June 29) at 2 p.m. at The Sanctuary, 4449 Red Bud Ave.
Since midnight on Saturday, MSD has received more than 500 calls, LeComb said. No neighborhood was hit harder
“Stick with your cards, because you will find him laughing with you and talking with you –and you’ll never get to why you came to him in the first place. And the next thing, you will find yourself in Siberia witnessing, because you went not prepared.”
“He’s probably preached in every country on the planet,” the Rev. Earl Payton said. “He preached for me in Heidenberg, Germany at a church I planted there when he was on his way to Poland to do a meeting.”
But according to Rev. Payton, as he moves around the world Pastor Bobo never forgets about West Side or its mission as a church to serve and build up the broken and uplift hearts.
“There ought to be a place where the meager and the marginalized – a place where the least, the left out, the lonely and the lost – can come,” Rev. Payton said.
“There ought to be a place where the church folk don’t step over them. And my good friend has been trying to make West Side that place for 25 years. He has tried to create a place that is inclusive – where the PhDs can sit with the
than the Penrose neighborhood, French said.
“We will fight to see that MSD does right by the people affected by this weekend’s flooding,” French said. French told The American that he met with residents of Essex Place on Sunday morning and spent “the next 48 hours helping folks get their lives back on track.”
stuck between a rock and a hard place. It’s a real problem that they are not trying to address – $2,400 will not cover replacing the furnace yourself.”
G.E.D.s.”
As Pastor Bobo and his wife of nearly 35 years approached the podium, their grace seemed to reach out and embrace the crowd. They smiled at each other, the grown men of God they raised in St. Louis and their church family.
“West Side, you really know how to throw a party,” First Lady Darlean Bobo said, just before her husband approached the podium.
years, we will very aggressively address flooding issues, which ultimately are waste water issues,” he said.
“I thank God for the privilege of sharing what God has placed in me with you for these many years – and for your willingness to follow my leadership,” Pastor Bobo said.
“This is a great, awesome privilege, and I don’t take it for granted. I’m so grateful for the wife that God has given me. We came here with three little boys – 8, 6 and 3 – and look what God has done: raised them up to be godly men.”
The Rev.Ronald L.Bobo Sr.and First Lady Darlean Bobo were the center of affectionate attention Saturday night at the Renaissance Grand Hotel, where West Side Missionary Baptist Church celebrated his 25th pastoral anniversary with a black-tie gala.
“It’s
West Side Missionary Baptist Church is located at 2677 Dunn Rd. and 4675 Page Blvd. Visit www.westsidembc. org/main.htm.
“You could literally swim off my front porch to Natural Bridge.”
– Leeroy Ray
Since Leeroy Ray moved into his house on Essex Place in 2006, he has experienced more than $30,000 in water damage from three different storms. Saturday’s storm was the most damaging.
“I had five feet of water in the basement at certain points,” he said. “I lost everything in my basement.”
The flooding took out his water heater, air conditioning unit, furniture, washer and dryer, and everything else. He estimates the damage will total about $15,000.
So the $2,400 reimbursement check he could receive from MSD is not comforting, even with his home insurance covering some costs.
“You keep making insurance claims, they are going to drop you or raise rates through the roof,” Ray said. “You are
Ray said the sewer system in the front of his house can’t handle any heavy rain, but other parts of the metropolitan area don’t seem to have that problem. The streets buckled at Marcus and Natural Bridge avenues and Marcus and Essex Place.
“You could literally swim off my front porch to Natural Bridge,” he said. Ray and his family were just recovering from the last storm, which hit on his birthday, May 26, 2010. It caused $8,000 in damage.
“Three out of four years, there has to be a flaw in your system,” he said of MSD.
“They want you to sign a waiver and walk away. I’m scratching my vacation plans. In the next month, my kids are going back to school. And they want to play the lowball game.”
LeComb said the flooding at Essex Place was too far away and too high in elevation to be caused by the power outage at the Harlem pump station, but they do not consider it a closed matter.
The area may just need an upgrade, he said, as the sewer system was built in 1850, and the community is much different now. LeComb believes the federal government will help fund such upgrades.
“Over the next several
Help with flooded basements
Residents with basement backups should call MSD at 314-768-6260. Residents may be eligible for reimbursement through MSD’s insurance program. MSD will reimburse up
to $2,500 –with a $100 deductible – to cover some of the damages that occur during the backup. To be eligible for coverage, you must contact MSD at 314-768-6260 within 30 days of the basement backup.
Residents who live in the areas of Newstead and Dryden or Marcus and Essex can place damaged, wet bulk items in front of their houses or alleys for disposal. For assistance with bulk item removal, call the 21st Ward Headquarters at 314-769-9000. There will also be a volunteer workday starting 9 a.m. Saturday in the Penrose neighborhood to assist with bulk item removal and storm cleanup. Residents who need the assistance of local disaster relief agencies and municipal disaster response organizations are asked to call the United Way’s 2-1-1 hotline.
Of their sons, Charles Bobo and Michael Bobo are preachers, while Ronald L. Bobo Jr. is a deacon.
been a wonderful journey together with the people of God,” Pastor Bobo said. “And I’m looking forward to seeing what God is going to do.”
Photo by Lawrence Bryant
13 Black Katz presents STRAWBERRY LETTER
Shirley Strawberry & Lyah Beth LeFlore
Photos by Maurice Meredith & Kevin Johnson
Trio honored on Juneteenth
Trio Tres Bien was honored at the 2011 Juneteenth celebration on Saturday, June 18. The group received a plaque and a certiicate of recognition for its outstanding contributions to jazz music. The celebration, hosted by The Buder Ol’ Timers, was held at Buder Playground, 2900 Hickory St. The theme was “Standing on Shoulders of Yesterday – Pressing for a Better Tomorrow.”
Volunteer against domestic violence recognized
Rameshwar Das is Gitana’s Extraordinary/ Ordinary Person of the Year
Americanstaff
Rameshwar Das, a priest at the Hindu Temple of St. Louis, received Gitana Productions’ 10th annual Extraordinary/ Ordinary Person of the Year Award.
“Rameshwar Das is the humblest of men with less than most inancially, yet he is always there to help with cases of domestic violence,” said Cecilia Nadal, executive director of Gitana Productions. Das works across racial, cultural and religious lines with SAWERAA, a local nonproit organization that helps South Asian women who are victims of domestic violence.
Rameshwar Das received Gitana Productions’ 10th annual Extraordinary/Ordinary Person of the Year Award.
Photo courtesy of Gitana Productions
them through the crisis and when they insisted on returning to India with dignity, he gave them money for the trip. In the U.S., one of every four women experiences domestic violence in her lifetime. The numbers are much higher for South Asian women.
Forty-ive to ifty percent of South Asian women, both in the U.S. and in their homelands, are victims of domestic violence, according to SAWERAA. Among those Indian women who are abused, 70 percent have attempted suicide.
Das currently lives with his wife Bainti Devi at the Hindu Temple after a ire destroyed their home. Several years ago, the couple learned of a severe case of parental abuse and brought the parents to stay in their home. Das gently helped
“Rameshwar Das helps abused families from both a spiritual and therapeutic standpoint,” Nadal said. “He is an important example to our community, speaking up on behalf of women and children.”
Nadal said the problem in the South Asian community is well hidden because victims rarely seek help, are unaware of services available to them and are uncertain about their rights. Culturally, she said, many South Asian women fear bringing shame to their family names or undue attention to themselves as new Americans. Gitana Productions works to increase cross-cultural awareness in the St. Louis region through international music, dance and drama. For more information, visit www. gitana-inc.org or call 314721-6556.
Photo courtesy of Trio Tres Bien
OBITUARIES
Yvette Marie Washington
Sunrise Feb 17, 1967
Sunset 1:30 June 26, 2011
My loving daughter, you were my best friend. I will miss you. You were so special to me, warm hearted, funny, kind to all. Sister, there’s no other with a heart as big as yours. You are loved by all who have ever known you. There aren’t any words or anything that will ill the void in our hearts. You were a real angel here on earth. She leaves to cherish her memory: Babygirl of Carrie Russell; husband, Rev. Darren Washington; daughters, Darnisha, Latricia, NaTasha; two loving grandsons, Javion and Jamari; sisters and brothers,
Angel, Lisa, Beverly, Anthony, Oscar, Yarnel. Services: Friendly Temple Missionary Baptist Church, viewing Friday, July 1, 2011 4-8 pm and Saturday 9-10 am. Homegoing Saturday, July 2, 2011 at 10 am. A webpage for Yvette has been set up for condolences, pictures, yvettesbraidz, Class of 85 Roosevelt High, part of the Skateking Crew, Yvette’s Braids.
Addie Lee Walker
Addie Lee Walker (nee Moore), a resident of St. Louis, Missouri departed this life on June 20, 2011. She retired from American Airlines after several years of dedicated service. Mrs. Walker leaves to cherish her memory: her sons, Sean W. Walker and Cory Walker; two grandchildren, Sean Walker, II and Grant Williams; siblings, George Moore, Kathleen Hundley, Freda McCain, Marilyn
Addie Lee Walker
Owens, Alice Roach, Michael Moore and Angela Lowe; a host of nieces, nephews, other relative’s family and friends. She was laid to rest in Lake Charles Memorial Park Cemetery, Pagedale, Missouri.
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.
New law establishes prostate cancer programs
American staff
Governor Jay Nixon has signed into law House Bill 667, which establishes two prostate cancer pilot programs to fund prostate cancer education, screening and treatment services. HB 667 was introduced by State Rep. Chris Carter, a Democrat who represents Missouri’s 61st District in North St. Louis.
One program must be located in St. Louis city and one in Pemiscot, New Madrid, or Dunklin County in the Bootheel.
The programs will be administered within the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, though the department can contract with the Missouri Foundation for Health to implement them. Ultimately, appropriated monies will be issued as grants to local health departments and federally qualiied health centers.
“Prostate cancer is a serious concern for older men and early detection is vital to improving survival rates,” said
Carter.
“The pilot programs established by this bill will help low-income men in St. Louis and the Bootheel get access to necessary screening and treatment services.”
According to law, the programs must be open to uninsured men or men who have a gross income of up to 150 percent of the federal poverty level and who are at least 50 years of age, or between 35 and 49 years of age who are at high risk for prostate cancer.
The bill passed unanimously by a vote of 139-0 in the House of Representatives and 33-0 in the Senate.
United Way funds youth programs in ESL
Five organizations each receive one-time grant of $25K
Special to The American
On a recent cool, June midmorning at East St. Louis City Hall, tucked away in the City Council chambers, a handful of people anxiously waited.
Ruby Streate, artistic director with Katherine Dunham Center for Arts and Humanities, was the irst to arrive.
“I got here at 9:30,” Streate said about the 10 a.m. presentation. “I had to make sure I was here.”
The Katherine Dunham Center and four other East St. Louis organizations that work with youth were each receiving a one-time grant of $25,440 from United Way of Greater St. Louis.
“I commend United Way for being visionary and for its commitment to East St. Louis,” said
East St. Louis Police Chief, Ranadore Foggs.
“Our most precious commodity is our youth and we must invest time and money into them. Our oficers appreciate United Way helping youth in East St. Louis and to help them know people care about them.”
Francella Jackson, director of community programs, City of East St. Louis, chaired this year’s East St. Louis one-time grants committee. She is also a member of United Way’s board of directors. She selected seven people she knew who are vested, as she is, in East St. Louis to make the “best decisions for East St. Louis youth.”
“We all know if our youth have nothing to do, crime goes up,” Jackson said. “Our committee met for several hours
more than once to determine the best way to strategically invest these dollars. We weighed what programs would have the most impact on youth.”
“This grant from United Way adds so much,” said Streate. “We haven’t had adequate funding in years.”
The grant will be used for the center’s new summer program that started June 13. Streate said they have “about 40” children ages 5-17 enrolled now.
“With this funding we’ll be able to expand and offer 80100 children all-day summer programs in Spanish, dance, percussion, singing, creative writing and more,” she said.
The East St. Louis Community Camp also received the $25,440 one-time grant for its ive-day overnight Peace camp for children that teaches conlict resolution, socialization skills and offers recreational activities Grifin Center: Catholic Urban Program received the grant for its summer day camp program for youth residing in four housing projects in East St. Louis.
Lessie Bates Davis Neighborhood House received the grant for Teen Reach, an after-school and summer camp program that works on conlict resolution, life skills, recreation and community service.
The Salvation Army received the grant for an after-school and summer program that works with area youth on music education, arts and crafts, and recreation activities
“With these United Way grants, these organizations will be able to do more to help youth in our community,” said Jackson.
Yvette Marie Washington
Representatives from the Katherine Dunham Center for Arts and Humanities, The East St. Louis Community Camp, Grifin Center: Catholic Urban Program, Lessie Bates Davis Neighborhood House and The Salvation Army each received a one-time grant of $25,440 from United Way of Greater St. Louis. Photo courtesy of United Way
State Rep. Chris Carter
Politics and speed bumps in STL
Political EYE was founded on a bedrock principle in politics: What it is, it ain’t. So much of what is said on the record and reported about politics is either not true or beside the point, if you know what really went down.
In St. Louis, mainstream media reporting on politics very seldom captures the style in which so much government business is conducted, especially in the city. This blindness to (or ignorance of) an entrenched style of political operating is critical to perpetuating that style of operating. Certainly, if this operational style were discussed more candidly in the media and understood better by the public, then the public might demand better politics – or better politicians.
This operational style consists of constant, routine divisiveness – often, though not always, along racial lines. It’s the old “divide and conqueor” modus operandi. It is in high gear right now in the city of St. Louis, in large part because a long-anticipated political process that usually produces bitter divisiveness – ward redistricting following a U.S. Census – has failed to turn aldermen against one another as expected.
This outcome was particularly unsettling for people who practice politics in the city by divide and conqueor, because the redistricting process was handled smoothly by an African American who has shown the capability of raising the sums of money needed to win significant citywide of-
fice: aldermanic president Lewis Reed
So the operatives in the office of Mayor Francis G. Slay, ring-led by chief of staff Jeff Rainford, have been forced to produce their own divisiveness at the Board of Aldermen, more or less from scratch. To do so, they chose a really pathetic opportunity: a board bill to pave the roads in a North City park with speed bumps.
The South Side Five
At the board meeting on Friday, July 17, Alderman Antonio D. French was trying to pass what anyone might have expected to be a minor, harmless bill: to pave speed bumps in O’Fallon Park, located in his 21st Ward. Under the custom of aldermanic courtesy, such bills that effect one ward without impacting the others usually slide by with unanimous approval. But it’s silly season – stupidly silly, according to eyewitnesses.
Five aldermen – led by 13th Ward Alderman Fred Wessels and 17th Ward Alderman Joe Roddy – spoke against the bill. All the aldermen who opposed the bill (unlike French) are white. It stunk of a play called from Room 200, because all five said almost exactly the same thing (and because Wessels is one of the mayor’s favorite “whack-a-mole” go-to South Side aldermanic mouthpieces).
They all said it would be “opening Pandora’s Box” if French gets to put speed bumps in “his” park. Wessels, Roddy and posse claimed to fear their constituents suddenly wanting speed bumps put into “their” parks.
At first stunned that he was being forced to defend such a harmless bill, French patiently explained that Pan-
French went on to explain that O’Fallon Park has a jogging trail with a new recreation center on its way.
It’s a North City park he is working hard to revive and make safer, and speed bumps limiting the speed of drivers is a no-brainer contribution to the effort.
This harmless park improvement did pass, but with 10 aldermen voting against it. To provide some perspective, the $390 million TIF awarded to the controversial Northside Regeneration passed the board 26-2
Flippers at the board
Evidence that the Mayor’s Office was steering opposition was made plain by the presence of two of Slay’s aides, former aldermanic henchman Stephen Gregali and Mary Ellen Ponder There’s good governance for you: that much of the mayor’s staff on hand to monitor a divisive play on a bill that could do no worse than improve public safety in a city park.
“Two of the mayor’s aides were there to try and flip votes against this speed bump ill,” the EYE was told by an eyewitness disgusted by the petty play. “Mind you, this was the same day the board passed the $900 million budget – and the mayor’s aides are there working the room, trying to flip votes on French’s bill.”
In fact, they did flip some. 12th Ward Alderman Larry Arnowitz, who had been with French’s speed bumps, now was against them.
This dust-up over speed bumps in a North City park went down in the perfection phase of legislation, when debate at the board typically happens. This past Friday, July 24 customarily should have been a formality in the bill’s passage, but not this time. The South Siders came at French’s bill again.
trail
a
on
way.
French encountered inexplicable resistance at the Board of Aldermen when he filed a bill to place speed bumps along the park roads.
The EYE was told Arnowitz had succumbed to that classic ploy in this style of city governance: the threat. In this case, the EYE was told, Wessels threatened Arnowitz that he would block a bill for a stop sign Arnowitz wants in his ward if Arnowitz didn’t line up against French’s speed bumps. That flipped him. It would seem that 3rd Ward Alder-
walk. Bosley left the room before the vote on the speed bump bill, then conveniently returned soon after the vote. Luckily for French, 20th Ward Alderman Craig Schmid – an independent who faced opposition from progressives in his ward this past election cycle – is still around to go his own way, regardless of what Rainford and Gregali want him to do. French appealed to Schmid, and the independent South Sider flipped from no to yes. As soon as Schmid flipped to yes, winning passage for the bill, Gregali’s face turned red and he silently mouthed some things you can’t print in a family newspaper.
All of this fuss over a speed bump bill!
It’s embarassing that this mayor’s office wasted this much time and effort and still couldn’t stop a speed bump bill. Maybe they can stop the demolition of a taco stand shaped like a space ship. Watch for 19th Ward Alderwoman Marlene Davis to be made to look the fool on that Del Taco deal. As the EYE has said before, expect many efforts to make the Board of Aldermen look foolish in advance of another charter reform effort.
O’Fallon Park has a jogging
with
new recreation center
its
Alderman Antonio D.
Photo courtesy of 21st Ward Organization
dora’s Box already has been opened. Tower Grove Park has speed bumps; Forest Park has speed bumps near the Zoo.
man Freeman Bosley Sr. was flipped, too – not to oppose his North City colleague, but to take a
Alderman
Antonio French
Alderman Craig Schmid
BUSINESS
A‘creative, persistent, prayerful’realtor
Myrtle Bailey adapts to a down economy to keep the properties moving
By Chris King Of The St.Louis American
As an African-American realtor working for a blackowned firm, Brown-Kortkamp Realty, Myrtle Bailey must experience race as a daily reality in listing and selling properties. Right?
Wrong.
“I am such real estate tactician, I never pay attention to that,” she said.
“I come into a room to do business. I don’t think I’m looked at as a black female; I’m looked at as a competent realtor they can trust. If a deal is to be done, I’m going to make it happen.”
And there are deals to be done, even during an historic housing slump with widespread foreclosures and anemic property values.
“There are horror stories, and they are true,” she said. “But in any down economy, in any period of challenge, the creative, persistent and (dare I say) prayerful survive and thrive.”
Forefront among today’s challenges: inflexible banks that won’t loan the money needed to complete transactions.
“The banks are not very flexible,” she said. “Their lending criteria are more stringent. They require more investment from buyers – 20 percent for a home loan, 30 percent for a commercial loan. Alot of my time is spent looking for private investors so the sellers can sell and the buyers can buy.”
Back in February, she closed on a notable local building – the wedge-shaped structure opposite Dressel’s in the Central West End – that was on the market for more than See BAILEY, B2
Alderwoman Marlene Davis,Marian Campbell of Missouri Housing Development Commission,Ken Hutchinson of TAALKE, Ron Roberts of McCormack Baron Salazar,Vince Bennett of McCormack Baron Salazar,Pastor Michael Jones of Friendly Temple Church,Cheryl Lovell of St.Louis Housing Authority,Sal Martinez of Community Renewal & Development,Thomas Jerry of St.Louis Housing Authority,Otis Williams of St.Louis Development Corporation,Alyson Singfield of Congressman Clay’s Office,James Heard of HUD St.Louis Field Office,Lt.Governor Peter Kinder and Alderman Terry Kennedy.
PEOPLEON THE MOVE
D. Ward
Michael D. Ward, associate dean for student programs and professor at Barnes-Jewish College in St. Louis, has been named a Life Member of the American Society of Radiologic Technologists. He is the 22nd member of the society elevated to Life Member status since the award’s inception in 1938. He joined the society in 1976, was named an ASRTFellow in 1988 and served as the its president in 1999-2000.
Charlene L. Jones received the Inspiring St. Louis Award from the NAACPof St. Louis City and County. She is assistant dean for the College of Arts and Sciences and assistant professor for Political Science at Harris-Stowe State University. The 25 Inspiring St. Louis honorees included five HarrisStowe alumni – Inez Giles, Art McCoy II, Marvin Neals, Billie Phillips and Judge Charles Shaw –and Katie Wright, HSSU professor emeritus.
Hansford
Justin Hansford was recently named as one of the “Top 40 Lawyers Under 40” by the National Bar Association.He will be joining the Saint Louis University School of Law as assistant professor on July 1 after clerking for Judge Damon Keith on the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit and serving as a law fellow with both the University of Maryland School of Law and Georgetown University Law Center.
Veronica Morrow-Reel has been promoted to community development assistant of Citizens National Bank of Greater St. Louis. A13-year employee of the bank, she will work with agencies, individuals and businesses in revitalizing low- to moderate-income communities. She is a former collector and alderwoman for the City of Dellwood and is vice chair of the Special Administrative Board of Riverview Gardens School District.
BUSINESS BRIEFS
Federal spending up with small businesses, DBEs
Federal spending with Small Disadvantaged Businesses (which includes small minority-owned businesses) was up for Fiscal Year 2010, with $34.39 billion (7.95 percent of federal contracts) for 2010 over $33.48 billion (7.57 percent) for FY2009.
The U.S. Small Business Administration released these numbers last week in announcing that the federal government awardednearly $100 billion in federal contracts to small businesses in FY2010, showing an increase in federal prime contract dollars to small businesses for the second straight year after four years of decline.
The man most responsible for monitoring compliance on minority inclusion goals on the $25.8 million first phase of the North Sarah development said St. Louis is about to experience a gamechanger.
“This will be an unprecedented project in the African-American community.”
– Ken Hutchinson, principal of TAALKE
“This will be an unprecedented project in the African-American community,” Ken Hutchinson, principal of TAALKE, LLC, told The American TAALKE, which is itself a local minority-owned business enterprise (MBE), won the contract for minority inclusionfrom the developer, St. Louisbased McCormack Baron Salazar. He said the developer’s marching orders were clear and emphatic.
“They told me to be innovative,” Hutchinson said.
Knowing that MBEs often hear about projects when the general contractor – with its own favorite subcontractors – already has been awarded the project, Hutchinson began arranging meetings and opportunity fairs with local MBEs and the firms competing for the general contactor contract before it had been awarded.
“That way, no matter who got the GC contract, there were already relationships with minority subs,” Hutchinson said.
In the end, the general contractor bid went to R.G. Brinkmann Company, but even that contract was awarded in in collaboration with an MBE, Simms Building Group.
For minority inclusion, Hutchinson said, goals have been set for 40 percent workforce participation and 35 percent subcontracting, though more minority firms will benefit because the project also has a goal of 20 percent Section 3 compliance.
Hutchinson’s firm also is monitoring the developer’s compliance
In FY2010, small businesses won a record $97.95 billion in federal contracts, or 22.7 percent of eligible contracting dollars. This marks the largest single year increase in more than five years, and is a significant improvement over FY2009, when 21.9 percent of contracting dollars were awarded to small businesses.
Urban Strategies receives grant forearly learning center
St. Louis-based Urban Strategies has been awarded a one-year $500,000 grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation for its human capital building efforts in New Orleans.The funds are targeted toward the continuation and expansion of workforce programs, and planning for an Early Childhood Learning Center. Urban Strategies President said Sandra Moore said, “Our objective is to build a community of learners from early childhood to adults, and to foster a culture of work and self-empowerment.”
By Chris King Of The St.Louis American
Michael
Charlene L. Jones
Justin
Photo by Maurice Meredith
Veronica MorrowReel
Myrtle Bailey, a realtor at BrownKortkamp Realty
Ken Hutchinson
Understanding the threat of estate taxes on your life insurance proceeds is the first step in protecting these funds from unnecessary taxation. The next steps are determining the appropriate ownership of your policy and selecting a proper beneficiary. Although there are other alternatives, a life insurance trust can help avoid potential threats to the policy’s proceeds.
What Threats Exist
Besides Estate Taxes?
Several factors may come into play that could undermine the financial security provided by the proceeds of your life insurance policy. Beyond estate taxes, there is the potential for probate, gift taxes and financial mismanagement. Proper planning is necessary to help avoid these threats.
Ownership Options*
Other than owning the
MBE
Continued from B1 with HUD’s Section 3 regulations requiring that lowincome individuals receive a portion of the economic benefits created through federal investments in affordable housing. HUD awarded a $7.8 million HOPE VI Grant to the project, which will be used to remove and remediate the last Blumeyer high-rise tower. (An additional $4.7 million is being invested in infrastructure, environmental remediation, demolition and site improvements.)
Though the project just broke ground officially on Friday, Hutchinson is certain all goals will be met or exceeded.
Maximizing yourinsurance benefits
insurance yourself, there are three practical options for the ownership of your life insurance.
Yourspouse. If you choose your spouse to be the owner and beneficiary of a policy on your life insurance, the proceeds of the policy will be subject to estate taxes and perhaps probate administration when he or she eventually dies. In addition, he or she will be responsible for investing the proceeds of your policy. Make sure your spouse is prepared and has the willingness to handle these additional responsibilities.
Achild. Naming a child as owner and beneficiary can lead to problems if the child lacks the experience for such a designation. You must be able to rely on him or her to maintain the policy and avoid letting the policy lapse. In addition, because your child will be the legal owner of the policy pro-
‘Community-driven vision’
The $25.8 million Phase I of North Sarah will include 120 mixed-income rental units, in a combination of townhome and garden-style units in a mix of two- and three-story buildings, plus commercial, management and community space. The architecture – contracted to KAI Design & Build, another St. Louis-based MBE – will celebrate the historic character of the community, formerly called the SarahFinney Merchants area. This business districtincluded places like the Comet Theater and the Comet Grill.
The new development also will feature modern amenities and sustainable technology to improve both the marketability and energy efficiency of the
P
ERSONAL
FINANCE
By Charles Ross
ceeds, you must be sure that he or she will be willing to supply necessary funds to the estate to settle taxes, fees, and other expenses.
An irrevocable life insurance trust. An irrevocable life insurance trust can help avoid threats to your policy’s proceeds. Because the designated trustee must manage the trust for your benefit, it helps ensure the availability of liquid funds when they are most needed. And because the trust is irrevocable and is the owner and beneficiary of your policy, the proceeds escape estate taxes in most cases. The trust arrangement allows the proceeds to avoid probate admin-
Charles Ross
istration and can sanction the professional management of the proceeds to help ensure the livelihood of your survivors. The use of a life insurance trust can provide an opportunity for families to utilize the benefits of their life insurance.**
Keep in mind that the cost and availability of life insurance depend on factors such as age, health, and the type and amount of insurance purchased. Before implementing this strategy, it would be prudent to make sure that you are insurable. As with most financial decisions, there are expenses associated with the purchase of life insurance. Policies commonly have con-
units. The project will be designed in accordance with Enterprise Green Communities criteria.
Hutchinson said the leadership of 18th Ward Alderman Terry Kennedy has been instrumental in getting this development launched with a strong commitment to minority participation. Kennedy has been working on the project for years.
“The North Sarah Development is one phase of the North Central Plan created by residents in the Vandeventer neighborhood. Over a two-year period, residents gathered with professional planners to put into writing their vision and hopes for their community. Out of this community engagement grew the North Central Plan that includes the North Sarah Project,” Kennedy told
The American “Their hopes, put into writing, was to provide a variety of housing, social service, recreational and business opportunities for their community and future generations of North St. Louisans. Their vision included a vibrant North Sarah strip that would recapture some of the flavor and services of the historic African-American business district that once thrived there. The North Sarah Project helps make thiscommunity-driven vision real.”
According to a former commissioner who has worked on the project, a share of the credit also goes to the St. Louis Housing Authority, which is contributing funding, staff and services to the Blumeyer Village Tenant Association.
“The development team of McCormack Baron Salazar and
tract limitations, fees, and charges, which can include mortality and expense charges. The use of trusts involves a complex web of tax rules and regulations. You should seek the counsel of an experienced estate planning professional before implementing such a strategy.
* Ataxable gift from the owner to the beneficiary may result when the owner, the beneficiary, and the insured are all different parties. To reduce the threat of gift taxes, the owner of the policy should be the beneficiary of the policy.
**An ILITis irrevocable and cannot be changed once it has been created.An insured individual contemplating the use of an ILITmust be willing to relinquish control of the assets transferred to the trust and must recognize the limitations that arise as a result thereof.The insured may not retain the right to revoke, alter,
R.G. Brinkmann/Simms should be commended for identifying opportunities for minority owned/operated construction firms, while also being committed to creating ‘boots on the ground’work opportunities for minorities who live in the vicinity of the development site,” said Sal Martinez. North Sarah is the most recent development of McCormack Baron Salazar’s strategy that has resulted in 1,385 new units and $234.4 million in new investment in North City.
“Realizing the transformation of this disinvested site is part of McCormack Baron Salazar’s overall goal to revitalize long-neglected areas in the north part of the city,” said Vince Bennett, chief operating officer of McCormack Baron Salazar.
amend, or terminate the Trust, meaning that the insured may not retain the power to change the trust beneficiaries and their interests.Likewise, the insured cannot require that assets contributed to the trust be used to pay premiums or otherwise maintain life insurance owned by the trust. Finally, the insured may not retain any economic benefit in the life insurance policy, for example, the insured will not be able to cash in or borrow against the cash surrender value of any life insurance policy after it is transferred to the Trust.
BAILEY
Continued from B1 two years and under contract almost all of that time, but that willing buyer never could secure financing. Finally, she sold the property – “basically, a shell” – for $153,500 to an Australian architect, Alastair Swayn, who plans to retire here, once he goes through the historical preservation process and gets the green light to renovate.
“I really enjoyed working with Myrtle,” Swayn said. “She is at the top of my list of real estate agents for service and professionalism.” In the meantime, Bailey’s side business (Real Estate Development Solutions LLC) has a small property management contract keeping up appearances at the abandoned dwelling. It’s one way she earns money between sales.
“There is always opportunity in real estate. I’m not sure how many businesses have that many related opportunities,” she said.
“That does not mean I’m independently wealthy,” she added with a laugh. “I am probably one of the hardestworking grandmothers!”
She has two grandchildren, ages 18 months and a mere six weeks. Her son Jared Odom works as operations assistant for the St. Louis Cardinals after getting a degree in sports management at SEMO. Bailey is from the St. Louis area, graduating from Lutheran North High school “back in the ‘70s.” She lives downtown in a townhome near the Edward Jones Dome, having “downsized from the West End.”
She has been a licensed realtor only since 2002, though Brown-Kortkamp celebrated its 50th Anniversary in 2010. As such, the firm stands as a pioneering black business in the field.
Last week, Bailey sat with Gail Brown, the firm’s president, at the Missouri Association of Realtors’75th anniversary reception at the Ameristar Casino. In the history slide show, they noticed white women realtors begin to appear only in the 1940s, and African Americans don’t become visible in the industry until the late ‘60s.
“Real estate is always a good business to be in,” she said.
“Beneath it all is land. Land isn’t going anywhere. Values fluctuate, so to be effective you need to be flexible and reinvent yourself for current market conditions.” Perhaps that’s why every home she has sold since that wedge in the West End has been a foreclosure or a “short sale,” sold for less than the value of the mortgage. Still – and not surprisingly, coming from a realtor – Bailey says now is the time to buy.
“It’s an excellent time for everyone, and African Americans in particular, who want to transform their financial reality, because real estate is useful towards that goal,” she said.
“As low as prices are, as low as interest rates are, this is the time.” Contact Bailey at 314-7584894.
“I don’t think we’re going to play at all next year.The owners are in it for Armegeddon.”
– Charles Barkley, on the NBA’s labor situation
STLthrives in USAtrack meets
Dawn Harper, Michael Rogers, Miles Smith, Samantha Levin excel in Eugene
By Earl Austin Jr.
Former East St. Louis star and Olympic gold medalist Dawn Harper finished third in the 100meter hurdles. Former McCluer South-Berkeley standout Michael Rogers finished third in the 100-
in the second round of last week’s National Basketball Association Draft. Harrellson’s
Devon beats bruiser in split
Matthysse leaves decision in judges’hands – and loses
By Glenn McBrady For The St.Louis American
As a line of severe weather soaked and battered the outside of the Family Arena last Saturday evening, inside the venue and within the ropes there was a furious storm of egos raging. Flashes of skill and profound rumblings of will pitched back and forth as Devon Alexander dug in his heels to stay near the top of a loaded super lightweight division and Lucas Matthysse clawed his way towards a future title opportunity. With a loss already on his record, a second consecutive stumble, even against a firebreather with cinder blocks for hands, would send “The Great” further south in the 140-pound ranks. His counterpart Matthysse, an Argentinean with incredible stoppage power, had predicted that he
would do his job and take Alexander out so the judges wouldn’t have to do theirs by rendering a verdict.
The theme for Team Alexander was “Redemption,” and from the time the first bell clanged there was added aggressiveness and a sense of urgency as Devon slipped in and out of range effortlessly, flashing a jab and using bobble-headed movement to avoid danger.
mat for the first time in his professional career. But it was evident when he bounced up and over to a neutral corner that there was minimal harm done.
Fans lifted their man, stomping feet and chanting, “Devon, Devon!”in the middle rounds when the painfully lean lefty could use it.
Matthysse looked cold and calculating as he stalked his prey around the real estate on the royal blue canvas in search of a show-stopping shot.
In the opening moments of round four, supporters of the local fighter had tense seconds after a straight right put Alexander on the
As the second half of the bout began, fans again lifted their man, stomping feet and chanting, “Devon, Devon!” at a time during the middle rounds that the painfully lean lefty could use it.
The words in my trusty notebook to sum up the sixth simply read, “Now it’s a fight.” Matthysse’s right mitt would find a home with regularity in the seventh, dialing up the thermostat in the room as he punctuated the round with some chatter.
Even though the Argentinean controlled the action in the eighth,
it was impressive to watch Alexander stand in the pocket and trade, instead of climbing on a bike and peddling away. The difference may have been training in the thin mountain air, but for much of the ninth Alexander’s crisp combinations were spot on as Matthysse’s advance began to slow a bit.
It was midway through the tenth and final frame that I remembered a conversation with Don King Productions’Alan Hopper earlier in the week at Marquette Rec Center, the home gym of trainer Kevin Cunningham and his charge. Hopper said of Devon, “He’s a different fighter. That Bradley fight changed him.” Watching the pair leave everything in the ring during the final half minute, I realized it was true. The final call was a split deci-
Beal is National Player of the Year, Maplewood 3-peat and more
By Earl Austin Jr.
Of The St.Louis American
It was a remarkable year of high school athletics in the St. Louis metro area. We enjoyed some tremendous performances from teams and individuals alike during the 2010-11 season. As we move into the summer months, he is another look back in our annual St. Louis American Prep Year in Review.
APlayer for the Ages: Chaminade College Prep senior Bradley Beal concluded a brilliant prep basketball career by being named as the Gatorade National Player of the Year. Beal averaged 32 points a game in leading the Red Devils to a 27-1 record. Beal participated in the McDonald’s AllAmerican Game, the Jordan Brand Classic and Nike Hoops Summit. Beal’s exploits have earned him a place as one of the top players in the history of St. Louis high school hoops.
IWAgoes back to back: Incarnate Word Academy won its second consecutive Class 5A state championship in girls basketball. The Red Knights defeated Blue Springs 59-49 to win the title in a very highly-spirited contest. It was the second consecutive year that IWAdefeated Blue Springs in the state title game.
Super-Stars: McCluer North won the Class 5 boys basketball state championship for the second time in five years. Led by super senior guard B.J. Young, the Stars stunned No. 1 Chaminade in the state quarterfinals before defeating Lee’s Summit North and Troy for the state title. The 6’3” Young averaged nearly 30 points a game to lead McCluer North on its dramatic run.
AMaplewood 3-peat: Maplewood Richmond Heights continued its dominance in boys Class 2 track by winning
championship, netting another state crown in the legendary coaching career of Nino Fennoy. The Flyerettes came to the state meet with a hungry group of young athletes and emerged with their third state championship. Gold Standard: Chaminade College Prep football star Rob Standard finished his career
Chaminade College Prep senior Bradley Beal holds the Gatorade National Player of the Year trophy.
Photo by Bob Barton
Local hero Devon Alexander went the distance with super lightweight slugger Lucas Matthysse at the Family Arena in St. Charles on Saturday evening and was declared the winner by split decision after the 10th and final round.
Earl Austin Jr.
CLAIB’S CALL
By Mike Claiborne
Is St. Louis losing its love forboxing?
Mike Claiborne
It seems like ages ago when over 20,000 people flocked to see a boxing event in St. Louis. “Event” is the word to use here as everyone wanted to be there, wanted to be seen and entertained. Now when it came to being entertained, many would think a knockout would be in store from one of the local, big-name fighters. That often was not the case. Fast forward to 2011, and here we go again: another fight, a smaller crowd and the same hope. Sorry, no sale again.
While the likes of Cory Spinks help put boxing back on the map in St. Louis, the well is running dry when it comes to entertainment. You can still find the bush-league tactics of the blowhards, as if that sell tickets. Yet somehow Don King has used his skill to convince HBO and Showtime that these fights will be a good show. It is amazing that with all the free publicity, a genuine nice, local guy in Devon Alexander and even the “Irish Outlaw” Ryan Coyne on the card that more people do not give these events more love.
People do not come out to see local guys fight who cannot deliver a knockout.
People do not come out to see local guys fight who cannot deliver a knockout. Alexander’s opponent on Saturday, Lucas Matthysse, is known in the boxing community. The fact that Devon could not get him near the canvas is disappointing to say the least. Alexander needs a new game plan, as the current one no longer works in or out of the ring.
After the Flood
If you want to have a better understanding of how baseball arrived at the soaring salaries
we see today, watch the HBO documentary The Curious Case of Curt Flood. It chronicles the intriguing court case surrounding former Cardinal outfielder Curt Flood and his refusal to accept a trade to another team. He fought it all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court where he lost, but it changed the way business is done in baseball. It cost him his career, and today’s players have no clue what he did for them and their way of life. It’s a must-watch history lesson that premieres on HBO on July 13.
Consultant to what?
Remember Dave Checketts? Carpetbagger Blues owner who thought it was a good idea to include Russ Limbaugh as an investor for his proposed bid to buy the Rams. He also decided to mix his politics with sports when he allowed then vice presidential hopeful Sarah Palin to be part of a ceremonial puck drop in St. Louis while she was running for office.
In his five years in town, the Blues have made the playoffs once and were eliminated in four games. The Blues have been for sale for some time as Checketts’financing reportedly has run out, but he continues to hold on.
Now Checketts has been hired by the Detroit Pistons as a consultant. Consultant to what? In his time running Utah and the Knicks they got to the Finals twice, once during the strike-shortened season and the other solely because of Pat Riley. So let’s not build a statue for Checketts and his contribution to the NBA.
3 out of 10 ain’t bad
It’s often said, at least in this paper, that the Cardinals do not have enough black players in their organization. In the most recent baseball draft, the Cardinals drafted three African Americans in the first 10 picks, one of which was from the RBI (Reviving Baseball in
program in Los
If these players make it to the show, it will not be overnight as it will take at least three to four years before they could have an impact. It’s a slow process to fix an ongoing problem, but it is a start.
Local super lightweight Devon Alexander beat Lucas Matthysse by split decision at the Family Arena in St. Charles on Saturday,though the local boxing scene’s lack of a prominent fighter with knockout punch is not helping the draw at the cards Don King has been bringing to the area.
Inner Cities)
Angeles.
Photo by Bob Barton
Spinks wins
Former two division champion Cory “The Next Generation”Spinks (38-6) made a successful return to the ring when he defeated Shakir Ashanti (16-11) via unanimous decision.Spinks founght on the Alexander/ Matthysse undercard.
TRACK
Continued from B3
rights were soon traded to the New York Knicks. It has been an amazing ride for the 6’10” Harrellson, who went from riding the bench at the University of Kentucky to playing a major role in the Wildcats advancing to the Final Four of the 2011 NCAATournament. Now, he has a chance to play for pay in the Mecca of basketball, Madison Square Garden. What a story.
REVIEW
Continued from B3
Standard rushed for 7,999 yards and 99 touchdowns. He surpassed former Timberland star Montee Ball as the area’s top career rusher.
Ladue Lightning: Ladue High’s stellar track and field tandem of Samantha Levin and Montenae Roye-Speight left their mark on the Class 4 girls state meet with a bevy of staterecord performances. Levin smashed the record in the 800meter run by more than three seconds. Roye set a new Class 4 state record in the 400-meter dash while the dynamic duo
DEVON
Continued from B3 sion in Alexander’s favor. Of course there were cries of protest from Matthysse and his posse, but it could have
Malcolm Hill on the rise
Belleville East basketball
standout Malcolm Hill Jr. has seen his stock rise as one of the nation’s top players in the Class of 2013. The 6’5” shooting guard currently has offers from Missouri, Illinois and Kansas State. Hill has also taken unofficial visits to Ohio State, Michigan and Xavier. Malcolm’s father, Malcolm Hill, has taken the job as the new Athletic Director at Maplewood High. Hill was an excellent high school basketball coach at Normandy High and at Northwest Academy.
finished their careers by leading Ladue to a new state record in the 4x400-meter relay. Levin and Roye-Speight are headed to NCAAwomen’s track power LSU.
Three of a kind: Francis Howell Central wrestling star Terrell Wilbourn completed a spectacular career by winning his third consecutive individual state title at the Class 4 state championships. Wilbourn completed a 28-1 season by winning the Class 4 state title at 140 pounds.
Future Redbird: McCluer High senior baseball standout Lance Jeffries was drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals in the 10th round of the Major
gone either way. The fact remains it was an even fight and Matthysse didn’t deliver on his promise to take it out of the judges’hands. An important point is that Team Alexander continues to face the toughest competition time and again, even after the
Indiana Cotton
O’Fallon High football
standout Mike Cotton has given a verbal commitment to Indiana University. The 6’3” 215-pound linebacker is one of the top returning players in the metro east area. As a junior, Cotton recorded 73 tackles and a team-high nine sacks in helping the Panthers to a berth in the IHSAClass 7Aplayoffs.
ESL moved to Class 3A
There will be a major shake-up in next year’s Illinois
League Baseball Draft. Jeffries was one of the top high school prospects in the state of Missouri throughout his senior year. He is also a product of the Mathews-Dickey Boys and Girls Club.
Cahokia Bounds: The Cahokia Comanches won their third state title in track and field as they won the Illinois Class 2Astate meet. Cahokia dominated the state meet behind the work of outstanding jumpers Vernon Carter and LaDerrick Ward. The jumping events have become a great source of pride and tradition at Cahokia with Carter and Ward being two of the latest stars.
Hawks do it again:
setback against Bradley.
And when the momentum swayed against him in those critical seconds early in the fourth, Alexander did what real fighters do. He got up, dusted himself off and fought for his life.
state basketball playoffs, especially concerning Metro East power East St. Louis. The Flyers will be competing in Class 3Anext season in boys and girls basketball. East Side has been moved down from Class 4A. The Flyers are the only school from the Southwestern Conference to be affected by the new enrollment shakeup. After advancing to the Class 4Asectional finals in 2011, the Flyers move down to challenge the likes of neighborhood rival Cahokia, which should be loaded for the next few years.
Hazelwood Central won the Class 4 state track and field championship for the second year in succession. The Hawks won the title in dramatic fashion as they won the 4x400meter relay, the last event of the meet, to win the championship. Central was led by senior sprinter Michael Hester, who won three gold medals in the 200, 400 and 4x400.
Photo by Bob Barton
Plan to pay your taxes all year
By Alma M Scarborough For The St.Louis
Alma M Scarborough
& BLACK SINGLE
Why is he with her?
I forgot to take into account one thing –the most
important thing
By Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American
“Why did you pick the woman you are with, when there are much more eligible women aching for a man like you?”
I took a deep breath when I presented this question to one of the handful of guy friends that will tell me anything I want to know – no holds barred – about their perspective on relationships.
It was a huge risk. Through him, I had become friendly with his girlfriend and he could have easily told her I was all but designating her as a deadbeat.
n Her livelihood was the monthly child support that she collected from her children’s fathers –yes, plural.
But I just felt like I needed to know why he passed over his steady rotation of “regulars” and decided to settle down with her. She was the least attractive physically, had the baggage of two children and was essentially unemployed. Her livelihood was the monthly child support that she collected from her children’s fathers – yes, plural. But somehow she had nabbed an extremely eligible, educated man with his own everything – and ambition to boot.
“Why her?” I asked.
“Why not her?” he replied. I listed what I believed worked against his girlfriend, and he looked at me with a blank stare. Then he went in on me like I had seriously insulted his manhood.
“Every chance you get, you ask me why you don’t have a man and why none of your ‘successful’ (yes, he put his ingers in quotations on me) friends do, when right now it is utterly obvious.”
See SINGLE, C4
St. Louisan Brandra X. Ringo has snagged a key position working for a senior executive at Universal Music Publishing Group in New York
10 years of Community Cuts
By Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American
What began as a dare from a boss has evolved into a unique opportunity for community building and a personal passion.
For the inaugural Craig Blac Community Cuts for Kids in 2001, then-radio star Craig Blac was backed by his station, Q 95.5 FM, eight barbers and a guest spot by then-hot new hip-hop group Philly’s Most Wanted.
Fifty young people headed back to school with haircuts
courtesy of the event, and it was considered a resounding success. Ten years later, much has changed. Both Q 95.5 and
Craig Blac seeks 125 barbers to cut 4,000 heads on August 14
Craig Blac became casualties of the radio game. Philly’s Most Wanted faded into the oblivion occupied by one-hit rap won-
ders. But the biggest transformation was experienced by Community Cuts.
Community Cuts for kids has grown from a few barbers serving 50 kids in a small room to more than 75 barbers and stylists working on 2,500 heads at three locations around St. Louis and the Metro East. Leonard’s Barber College, Vatterott College, Elaine Stevens, Paul Mitchell School, Unlimited Diva Hair School,
See CUTS, C4
Playing with power
International Playground empowers refugee youth through drama
By Rebecca S. Rivas Of The St. Louis American
“I was in math class minding my business,” said Dadiri Muya, a refugee from Somalia and student at Roosevelt High School. “I felt empowered because I knew the lesson.” Before a crowd of about 100 people, Dadiri clenched his jaw as he prepared to tell the second part of the story. He was one of 13 refugee teens who performed recently with the International Playground, a performing arts group for refugee and immigrant teens, in the show “A Power Play.”
The teens wrote the play based on their “experiences of power” as refugees, coming to the U.S. and living in St. Louis. The show was held at St. John’s Episcopal Church in South City.
“Then Charles started talking smack,” he said. “But I left it alone. I felt in control. Then it was time for lunch, and he pushed me out of line. I let it go. He couldn’t touch me.”
Finally, Dadiri said that he lost his patience at the third offense, and he told Charles to meet him after school. Dadiri beat up Charles in a bloody ight, and the cops immedi-
Hot jobs and cool outings
By Dana Grace Of The St. Louis American
Devotees in pink, St. Louisans locked to the downtown area to support our annual Susan G. Komen Race for The Cure Breast Cancer Walk on June 11. A family and friends outing, Marion
“Snookie” Robinson led the charge for Atty. Christopher and Sharon Smith, Christopher Smith Jr. Robin Smith Patel Kamille Williams Tammy Robinson, Susan Arceneaux Smith and a host of family friends. Everyone completed the walk, then raced to a well-deserved family brunch. Members and friends of the Gos-
hen Oaks Social Club who journeyed to Tunica, Mississippi a couple of weeks ago are still bragging about their exciting weekend. The jolly troupe had a great time creating laughable memories with new and old friends at the popular Sam’s Town Resort and Casino. A few of the regulars attending were Chink and Connie Washington Chief LCW Jenise Brown, Andres Broussard Carl Bruce Matthew Weeden Vicky Brown Roosevelt Becton, Kenny Thomas Tyler Persons Robert Ware, Greg Daly and Judith Pruitt
See POTPOURRI, C4
ately took him away in handcuffs. He spent seven months in juvenile detention.
“I felt powerless because no one would hear my story,” he said. “I still carry that anger at injustice.”
See POWER, C4
Dana Grace
City.
Emmanuel Wesseh, 19, from Liberia raps about his experience coming to the United States as a refugee at the “Power Play” show, presented by the International Playground performing arts group for refugee teens. Muya Abdi, Muya Muya and Dadiri Muya back him up.
Photo by Juan Montana
Stylists from Vatterott College, Leonard’s Barber College, Elaine Stevens, Paul Mitchell School, Unlimited Diva Hair School, St. Louis Hair Academy and independent barbers donate their time to Craig Blac Community Cuts for Kids.
Photo courtesy of Craig Shields Foundation
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
Jul., 2, 7 p.m., JeKade Entertainment presents Bobby Womack featuring Latimore, The Ambassador, 9800 Halls Ferry. For more information, call (314) 5341111.
Jul. 8 – Jul. 9, Jazz St. Louis presents Legacy Jazz Quintet performing “The Music of Miles Davis: 1959-1968,” Jazz at the Bistro, 3536 Washington. For more information, call (314) 534-1111 or visit www.metrotix.com.
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) 869-9090 or 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.
Thurs., Aug. 4, 7 p.m., BudweiserSuperfest presents Jill Scott’s SummerBlock Party hosted by Doug E. Fresh and featuring Anthony Hamilton, Mint Condition and DJ Jazzy Jeff, Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre. For more information, visit www.livenation.com.
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
Sun., Jul. 20, 2 p.m., Pand R Events presents Soulful Second Sunday featuring the R & B sounds of Grand Elite Band, St. Louis Gateway Classic Sports Foundation, 2012 Dr. Martin Luther King Drive. For more information, call (314)262-2935 or e-mail: pandrevents@yahoo.com
Sun., Jul. 10, 5 p.m., Sultry Divas presentan Anita Bakertribute, The Bistro @ Grand Center home of Jazz at the Bistro, tickets on sale now call 314.496.7596 or 314.397.5014 or 314.800.3042.
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
CALENDAR
Lexus Len Productions presents THE BACK WITH A VENGENCE TOUR featuring George Clinton & Parliament/Funkadelic,The Ambassador.See CONCERTS for details
(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.
Mon., Jul. 4, 10 a.m., DoubleTree by Hilton Cookie CAREavan embarked on a 10-week, 10,000-mile, 50-city tour to bring its sweet treats to tired travelers, weary workers and local charities nationwide. Cookie CAREavan tour will stop in St. Louis at Kiener Plaza, 600 Market St.
Jul. 9, 7 p.m., Neighborhood Yard Sale, This historically preserved neighborhood is saturated with fantastic treasures.
Furniture,fashion items, tools, many housewares, toys, and electronics will be sold at “Get Rid of Pricing.” Newberry Terrace & Lewis Place (One block south of Page and Taylor). For more information, e-mail: lbs11@att.net.
Jul. 8 – Jul. 9, Atwo day celebration of the rich history of East St. Louis, East St. Louis Higher Education Center, 601 James R. Thompson Boulevard, East St. Louis, IL62201.Sponsored by the Institute for Urban Research at SIUE and The East St. Louis Action Research Project of UIUC. For more information, contact The SIUE Institute for Urban Research at (618)650-5262 or visit www.siue.edu/iur.
Sat., Jul., 9, 10 a.m., Carver Day 2011 Celebration, George Washington Carver National Monument near Diamond, Missouri, is pleased to announce the park’s annual Carver Day Celebration to be held on Saturday, July 9, 2011 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The public is cordially invited to attend the 68th Carver Day anniversary to commemorate the life of George Washington Carver and the establishment of the national monument in his honor.Admission is FREE. Please call the park at 417-325-4151 between 9 a.m.
and 5 p.m. for further information.
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.
Sat., Jul. 9, 2 p.m., Women of Evolution and Destiny/Women’s Empowerment Conference, the conference will address the needs and concerns of women dealing with domestic violence transcend all ages, ethnic groups, economic and religious backgrounds. Legacy Bookstore and Café, 5249 Delmar Boulevard, Saint Louis, MO 63108. For more information, visit www.stoptheabuseplease.org www.niagroupstl.com or call (314)456-6753.
Sat., Jul. 9, 6 p.m.
Community Asset Management Co. 1st Annual Family Skating Event, St. Nick Skating Rink, 1805 Lucas Ave. For more information, call (314)534-5400.
Jul. 12, 7 p.m. Explore the history of St. Louis’first African American woman millionaire.Annie M. Turnbo Pope-Malone founded PORO HAIR & BEAUTYCULTURE in 1902. She was a rousing success and continues to inspire us because of her legacy in the Annie Malone Children and Family Services Center.During the course, you’ll examine her hair and beauty business, the Poro College complex, and learn more about her unique product distribution system. For more information, visit http://www.stlcc.edu/Continuin g_Education/View_Current_Cl ass_Offerings.html
Jul., 15, 1 p.m., Disaster Recovery Hearing, Maryland Heights Government Center located at 11911 Dorsett Road in Maryland Heights. Atestimony may be submitted online at www.modisasterrecovery.com if members of the community cannot attend the hearing.
Thurs., Jul. 14, 11 a.m., AAUWBallwin-Chesterfield Branch Meeting and SummerPicnic, Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park, Sailboat Cove, Tremayne Shelter,2348 Creve Coeur Mill Road. For more information, call (636)938-3958 or e-mail apatriciashores@att.net
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 more information, call (314)-3696548
Sat., Jul. 16, 6 p.m., St. Matthew’s 13th Annual DinnerAuction. Several items will be raffled and auc-
tioned, including, baseballs autographed by current Cardinal favorites, an iPad, exciting trips and more.St. Matthew’s Auction supports the Church’s activities in the Ville neighborhood.For more information, visit http://stmatthewtheapostlecatholicchurch.org/
Thurs., Jul. 21, 6 p.m., National Sales Network-St. Louis presents NSN Connection Experience: Preconference Kick-off, Lola.
Sat., Jul. 23, 9 a.m., Please join us in celebrating Katherine Dunham, a dance legend and a historical icon for St. Louis.The International Katherine Dunham Technique Seminar is 8 days of dance technique classes, world dance, lectures, films, discussions, museum tour, welcome reception, black tie gala, and more.
Sat., Jul. 23, 7 p.m., 1st Annual Green Grass Carpet Honolulu Ball, Visitation Hall, 1421 N. Taylor. For more information, call (314)4800311.
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.
Through Aug. 12, Best Dance & Talent CenterDance & Activity Camp, (7 a.m. – 6 p.m. Mon.- Fri.) Best Dance and Talent Center, 105 Northwest Plaza. For more information, call (314) 739BEST(2378).
Wednesdays through August, 5 p.m., The Downtown CID is introducing a NEW Downtown-wide Happy Hour, Wednesday Night Out, The Happy Hour will be from 5-7 pm and over 20 participating Downtown bars and restaurants will offer $4 signature cocktails, $3 wines, $2 beers and half-priced appetizers. To see if your favorite restaurant/bar is participating, visitwww.downtownstl.org/we dnesdaynightout
Lexus Len’s Jazz Happy Hour Every Wed 6-10pm @ The Loft 3112 Olive, 2 for 1 Drink Specials 6-8pm, Jazz Band 7-9:30pm, Free Food while it last, No Cover Charge, Mature Atmousphere Only.....
Wed., Jul. 13, 7 p.m., The St. Louis Publishers Meeting, Brentwood Community Center, 2505 Brentwood Boulevard.
For more information, please visit www.stlouispublishers.org.
Wed., Jul. 13, 7 p.m., Left Bank Books presents bestselling authorSapphire discusses The Kid, the sequel to her book Push, Christ Church Cathedral, 1210 Locust. For more information, visit www.left-bank.com.
theatre
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.
Jul. 29 – Aug. 6, Hawthorne Players will present the musical “Annie,” The Florissant Civic Center Theatre, Parker Road and Waterford Drive. For more information, call (314) 9215678 or visit www.hawthorneplayers.com.
Aug. 6, 10 a.m., Families region-wide will get to check out the offerings of the newly reconstructedDelta Dental Health Theatre and gain access to a free, medievalthemed outdoor festival on the grassy lot just down from the theatre at the corner of First and Lucas streets. There will be a parade and meet-and-greet with the theatre’s cast of characters and other kid favorites. The event will also feature a host of games, prizes, stage performances and the Street Dreamz Talent Contest. The first 500 guests will receive free tickets for a future visit to the Delta Dental Health Theatre and other giveaways. Delta Dental Health Theatre, 727 North First Street. For a complete list of planned activities for this rain or shine event, visit www.ddhtstl.org.
arts
Sat., Jul. 12:30 p.m., the Contemporary Art Museum presents Food forThought –CAM’s monthly program fea-
turing creative, art-inspired tastings by a local chef. This month, Hollyberry Catering will present a Spanish-inspired tasting menu based on the background of exhibiting artist, Francisco Goya. the Contemporary Art Museum, 3750 Washington Blvd. For more information, visit www.camstl.org
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
Sat., Jul. 9, 4 p.m., Artist Talk featuring David Langley The Grocery List Closing Reception, Aisle 1 Gallery, 2627 Cherokee Street, 63118. Email your questions to info@aisle1gallery.com for a chance to win a limited edition signed tshirt.
Through July 24, The Gallery at The Regional Arts Commission presents Point o Departure featuring Cbabi, Jarvis and Lobdell. Gallery talk will take place at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday Jun. 30, Regional Arts Commission, 6128 Delmar.
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; For more information, call (314) 516-5273 or visit www.pprc.umsl.edu.
lectures
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 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.
Jul. 16, 1 p.m., American Business Women’s Association Renaissance Chapterof St. Louis as we show our appreciation to business associates, present our 2011 scholarships and name 2011 Woman of the Year at the annual YACOVELLI’S RESTAURANT& BANQUETS, 407 Dunn Rd. 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 Metropolitan 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
Tues., Jul. 5, 7 a.m., ForMen Only, Sisters: Help your fathers, brothers, husbands, sons, male friends stay healthy! Information sessions include Erectile Dysfunction, Prostate Cancer, Heart Disease High Cholesterol with Dr. V.O. Walker, MD. West Florissant Internist (next to People’s Health Center), 11636 West Florissant, Florissant, Mo. 63034.
Jul. 8, 9:30 a.m., the Missouri Lions Eye Research Foundation presents a free Children vision screening Saint Louis Science Center. For more information, visit www.mlerf.org.
Jul. 15, 9 a.m., The Missouri Lions Eye Research Foundation host a free Healthy Vision Screening, 10801 Pear Tree Lane, St. Ann. For more information, visit www.mlerf.org.
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
spiritual
Jul. 8, 8 p.m., C-Note
Entertainment presents, “The Roll Show” Gospel Skate & Entertainment hosted by DJ Daryl Lester, the orginal host of Gospel 1600Friday Night Praise Party.SPECIAL GUESTPerformances by Rikdilulous Bolden aka Rik Rok and Phase 2!St. Nicholas Skating rink. For more information, visit www.c-noteentertainment.com.
Sat., July 9, 1 p.m., Kick-Off celebration forthe Laura Mae Davis Vacation Bible School, Leonard Missionary Baptist Church, 1100 North Compton Ave. @ Rev. Steven G. Thompson Drive. Classes: July 11-15 - 6:00-8:30pm nightly. For more information, call (314) 534-1967.
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. Jul. 18 – Jul. 22, Hopewell MB
Continued from C1
Meanwhile a group of St. Louis scenery lovers enjoyed a day trip organized by NHerBag co-chairs Jennifer Jones (Boeing) and Sheron Chaney (College Summit). This spirited crew traveled to Stonehill Winery for lunch, a winery tour and wine tasting. Fortunately, weather permitted a fun-illed day for Gwen and Tasha Tutts, Brenda Ringo Theo Ringo Antoinette Shaw Ashley Donahue Gwen Tutts, Louise Portis and an eager cluster of friends. Brenda Ringo is proud to “toot toot” her horn for daughter Brandra X. Ringo (New York City) who has snagged a key position working for Senior VP Ethiopia Habtemariam – Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG). After the recent departure of Sylvia Rhone as president of Universal Motown; Ethiopia is the highest-ranking AfricanAmerican female at a major record label.
St. Louis’ own Brandon “HotSauce” Glover of Laff Mobb and Comedy Central fame is still bragging about his recent trip to LA where he performed in a showcase prepared for BET. Looking forward to the air date. Keep us posted HotSauce.
SINGLE
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I thought I knew where he was going with his jab. I assumed he was going in the direction of “y’all are so busy chasing Prince Charming that you run past the gatekeeper who may not be as eligible, but is available,” but I was dead wrong.
Instead, he began expressing how our “eligibility scale” is systematically lawed and we deserved to be single simply because of the way we weighed the options of the men that we deem ideal mates.
“When my car broke down, the woman who would become my lady gave me a ride while the other women I was dating talked about what kind
Ethiopia Habtemariam, senior VP at Universal Music Publishing Group, is now the highest-ranking African-American female at a major record label.
A note from St. Louis superstar Sheila Banks (New York City): “I am so excited to share with you the website link for my irst (published) novel, Bittersweet! It is my greatest wish that you will like what you see . . . and read. And, hopefully be inspired to read the entire book when it is released this fall.”
Please join her village by sharing this link with your friends, family, colleagues, clubs and most importantly your social network fan base: http://www. bittersweetbysheilabanks. com
St. Louis Chapter Links, Inc. Co-Chairs Dr. Angela Brown and Barbara Bowman (STL Urban League)
of car I should get,” he said.
“She also instantly welcomed my daughter into her family, while the others assumed that there would be some kind of ‘baby mama’ drama and decided to see where this was going before they attempted to get involved.”
As he presented his few and far between bouts with life’s speed bumps, I realized that I would have reacted in the same way as the women he passed over.
“She might not have a job, but she never hesitated to offer up what she had in our purse as OURS and with NO expectation,” he said.
I was wowed, but I had to bring up that he would be even further towards what other people deem the American Dream if she had an ounce of professional ambition.
organized a top-light event (Links on the Links) for June 17. Unfortunately the chapter’s 9th Annual Golf Tournament Fund-Raiser that beneits the Links Foundation was canceled due to inclement weather. Golfers assembled at the Eagle Springs Golf Course in North County enjoyed a great lunch while watching planned scholarship presentations. The event has been re-scheduled for September 16. Keep an eye on the St. Louis American’s calendar for registration information. The annual Father’s Day Golf Tournament held at the Stonewolf Golf Club in Fairview Heights, IL was a rousing success. Event directors Reggie Smith Charmaine Manse Simpson, Mike Thomas and Chuck Jackson had all ducks in a row for the 7:20 a.m. shotgun start. To name a few seen on the green: Bernard Randolph Jr., Richard Banks Sr. Kevin Washington Mike Claiborne and Levi Kirkland
Citing the Kirklands, Drs. Levi and Roselyn Kirkland are ecstatic that daughter Alana Kirkland – (2007) MICDS and (2011) Stanford University graduate is on her way to Harvard Law School. She will be a member of the class of 2014. Impressive, Alana! Blessings. Enjoy your holiday next week! Email Dana Grace at dgrandolph@live.com.
“With the money you make, she wouldn’t even have to bring home $10,000 anything annually for y’all to be a sixigure power duo,” I said.
“I’m not saying she’s perfect,” he conceded. “She does need to get herself together from a professional standpoint. But it’s a small price to pay. You mentioned all of these reasons why someone else would be better, but she is the most generous and caring of them all.”
I realized that while I brought up who had the most bang in his rotation – from booty to bank account – I had never even factored in the heart of the woman that he should choose.
If I had done so with him, then I’ve most certainly done it in my own life. As a matter of fact, I know I have ... and I know I’m not alone.
St. Louis Hair Academy and a host of independent barbers and stylists are eager partners.
“When I irst started, I was just expecting to help a couple of kids,” Blac said. “Over the years, the demand continued. It’s turned into a family event.”
Over the past nine years, 27,000 children in the area have received cuts and curls at the annual event. School supply distribution, appearances from local artists and giveaways have been added to the lineup of activities. This year, add health screenings to the list.
stylists and donations so that on August 14 he can achieve his 2011 goal of 125 barbers and stylists teaming up to provide cuts and curls for more than 4,000 young people, with every student walking away with school supplies. He also intends to use Community Cuts as a platform to launch the Craig Shields Foundation.
“When my radio career ended here in St. Louis, I kept with my community service,” Blac said. “It’s my passion. It’s what I’m doing full-time.”
Blac is soliciting barbers,
POWER
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Dadiri was actually telling the story to the play’s narrator, Super Power Agent 2011, played by Jorida Petritaj from Albania.
“I am my own boss specializing in gathering stories of power: people who are struggling, who have lost all control, and people who have empowered themselves to achieve their goals,” Super Power Agent 2011 told the audience.
She told Dadiri that his story is important for everyone to hear.
“I hope that sharing it will help you release at least some of your anger at this injustice,” she said.
Designed to facilitate the
“I’ve put radio on the backburner and I’m taking my foundation to another level,” Blac said. “Now that I’m a non-proit organization, I want to let people know that I’m planning on doing more than the cuts every year.” He plans to add a year-long mentoring component and grow the event in other markets – including Blac’s hometown of Washington, D.C., Madison, Wis., Dayton, Ohio and Indianapolis, Ind.
He plans to solicit his friends in radio to “grab the attention
healing process of young refugees and immigrants, International Playground is a program of the Center of Survivors of Torture and War Trauma, 1077 Newstead Ave.
This year, about half of the participants were from Bhutan (a small nation in South Asia), and the other half were from East and West Africa. Almost all are Roosevelt High School students, because the school is close to the International Institute, a relocation agency.
Mark Pagano, program director, has participated in six of the group’s seven annual performances. A continual theme of the students’ stories over the years is racism among students at Roosevelt, he said.
“From my understanding, the group members had seen each other in the halls, but they had not had too much interaction because there is some segrega-
of young people and give them that reality check they need and show that there is life outside of their neighborhood.”
For year 10 of Community Cuts, he has enlisted Fox 2’s Tim Ezell to co-host a telethon on KTVI 8–10 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 3 featuring St. Louis stars. McDonald’s and the St. Louis Department of Veteran Affairs also are pitching in to help.
“Radio was a great vehicle to drive things,” Blac said. “But right
tion among students,” Pagano said. “It was really great to bring them together and give them this common experience.” Emmanuel Wesseh, age 19, from Liberia said his favorite part of the program was the day of the show.
“We thought there would only be like 10 people, but there was a lot,” he said. “What I felt was all the way back home.” Wesseh said he wants to go to college so he can return to Liberia and help rebuild the war-torn country.
“We have to be the good people who go back home and do something good for the community,” he said.
Muya Muya, from Nairobi, Kenya, said he was a little nervous when he saw the crowd, “but I just gave it everything I had. You just have to dedicate yourself and put that extra effort.”
By Craig Eichelman, AARP Missouri State Director
Craig Blac
Craig Blac Community Cuts for kids
room
tions around St. Louis
Be a Tourist in Your Own Town
Route 66 in STL
Traveling from Chain of Rocks Bridge to Meramec Caverns
Get your kicks on St. Louis’ stretch of historic Route 66 where the fabled “Mother Road” makes some of its most interesting detours.
The 2,448-mile highway, which opened in 1926, lured generations of travelers to hit the road and head west across America from Chicago to the Paciic coast of California. Today you can see why Route 66 is such an enduring legend by visiting roadside attractions on the highway between St. Louis and Chicago known everywhere as “The Best of Route 66.”
Start your Route 66 journey into St. Louis on the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge. Located north of downtown, the bridge was Route 66’s original crossing over the Mississippi River at St. Louis. The span, which is one of the longest pedestrian and biking bridges in the world, is open to visitors every day. From the bridge, you’ll see stunning views of downtown St. Louis and the city’s whimsical castle-like water intake towers from high over the Mississippi. Special eagle-watching excursions take place on the bridge each January.
Follow the Riverfront Trail – a hiking and biking path – from the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge to the Gateway Arch, St. Louis’ ultimate monument to the great American West. Wagon train pioneers paved the way for Route 66 by establishing dusty frontier trails to the west from St. Louis in the 1800s. Today the Arch sits at the head of I-44, pointing modern travelers to the west. Stop in the Arch’s fascinating Museum of Westward Expansion to marvel at the rugged covered wagons, see the Lewis & Clark exhibits and say a silent “thanks” for the invention of shock absorbers and pavement.
Leaving downtown, grab a bite at the counter of the Eat Rite Diner on Chouteau just west of Broadway for a classic Route 66 experience. The sweetest stop on Old Route 66 is in South St. Louis at Ted Drewes Frozen Custard, 6726 Chippewa. On any given day you might ind wedding parties, television crews, tour groups, classic car clubs, journalists and visitors from all 50 states waiting in line at the Mother Road’s most famous refreshment stop.
Opened in 1929, Ted Drewes has served frosty “concretes” to generations of hungry travelers and long lines of loyal St. Louisans. The frozen vanilla custard shakes are blended with fruits, nuts, candies and other lavors and served so concrete-thick they’re handed to customers upside down.
Don’t let the crowds scare you away. Lines, which are longest on summer nights after Cardinals baseball games or theatre performances in Forest Park, move at an amazing pace.
Across the street from Ted Drewes, another tasty Route 66 icon – Donut Drive-In – still dispenses glazed donuts to hungry drivers. Both Ted Drewes and Donut Drive-In are just minutes south of Forest Park. From I-64, take the Hampton Avenue exit to Watson Road and continue south to Chippewa.
Follow the Route 66 markers along Chippewa and Manchester roads heading west through the suburbs of St. Louis to see leftover
Start your Route 66 journey into St. Louis on the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge, Route 66’s original crossing over the Mississippi
roadside motels and diners scattered among busy modern shopping areas. To set a faster pace, travel I-44 – Route 66’s modern replacement – west to Route 66 State Park along the picturesque Meramec River. The park’s remodeled visitor center offers modern road warriors a peek into the past with artifacts and displays from the route’s 79-year history.
An hour southwest of St. Louis on I-44, you’ll reach Meramec Caverns, the oldest tourist attraction on the Mother Road. The site has been welcoming Route 66 wanderers since 1933 for a fascinating underground look at the region’s history and geology. Missouri legends say frontier outlaw Jesse James hid men, loot and horses in the massive cave. Before Jesse’s arrival, French colonial miners and Civil War soldiers used the cavern’s natural minerals to manufacture gunpowder. During the attraction’s early days, owners took American roadside art to new heights by turning painted barn roofs into billboards promoting Meramec Caverns all across the country.
Other St. Louis area attractions along the I-44/Route 66 corridor include the Six Flags St. Louis theme park where visitors can zoom around in 100 rides and drive oldtime cars; Shaw Nature Reserve; and Purina Farms, an animal-focused attraction for the whole family. Just off the interstate, the Museum of Transportation displays Bobby Darin’s 1964 Dream Car along with other steel machines that once tooled along the Mother Road. A unit of the notorious Coral Court Motel, which once stood as a Route 66 hideaway for lovers and crooks, has been reconstructed at the museum.
Even though the old road was decommissioned in 1985, it still holds a special place in the hearts of St. Louisans. As Nat “King” Cole sang in Bobby Troupe’s ode to Route 66, “If you ever plan to motor west, travel my way. Take the highway that’s the best. Get your kicks on Route 66!” Just don’t go too fast or you’ll miss the best of the Mother Road right here in St. Louis.
To learn more about being a tourist in your own town, visit www.explorestlouis.com.
St. Louis Convention and Visitors Commission
River at St. Louis.
Anniversary/Birthday Celebrations for the Johnsons
We love & cherish you! Happy birthday dad & mom and happy 34th anniversary (June 4) to you!
Birthdays: Linda Johnson - June 15th and Dr. John H. JohnsonJune 27th. From your children, John Johnson, JayVince Johnson, Jermaine Johnson, PFC. LaVena L. Johnson (your Guardian Angel) & LaKesha Johnson
Reunions
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.
Beaumont High School Class
~ CELEBRATIONS ~
Engaged Wedding set for June 9, 2012
Cori Cloyd and Kalonda Morgan are engaged! The special day is set for June 9, 2012. Cori and Kalonda are so happy after rekindling their love of 8 years.
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 1976 will have its 35-year reunionAugust 19-21, 2011. Fri. night,Aug.19—meet & greet hospitality suite St. Louis AirportRenaissance Hotel, Sat., Aug. 20— DinnerDance St. Louis Airport Renaissance Hotel Penthouse & Sun., Aug. 21 worship & picnic.For more information email bhs1976@swbell.net or visit our website at
Anniversary Silver anniversary
Marvin and Marlene Mosby celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary on June 28, 2011. Twenty five years ago, they were married in the presence of God, family and friends. They have one son, Marvin E. Mosby, III.
Birthdays!
• Heath “Big Time” Davis (45) - June 30
• Tiffany Collins - June 30
• Clydette Cooper - July 2
• Billy Poppers - July 4
http://desyco.tripod.com.
Beaumont High School Class of 1981 30-year reunion, Aug. 19-21, 2011. Fri., Aug. 19, Happy Hour at EXO Ultra Lounge, 3146 Locust St. 6-10 pm, Free H’ordeuvres, Live Band; Sat. Aug. 20, 30th Reunion Celebration at Alpha House, 3615 N. 19th St., 7 pm2 am, Semi-Formal Attire, $10 Admission at the door; Sun. Aug. 21 Family Day Worship Service, Church TBAat Reunion Celebration, Dinner will be at Dave & Busters after Morning Worship Service.
Central High School AllClass reunion is looking for classmates to celebrate during the reunion weekend, August 12-14, 2011.All interested classmates should contact 601-4109 for more informa-
Anniversary Proud parents celebrate 21 years
Patrick and Michelle (Word) Hollis celebrated 21 years of happy marriage on June 23, 2011. They are the proud parents of Suggs Scholarship Finalist, Abigail, and son, Blake, who is a middle school honor roll student. Abigail will attend Mizzou this fall. The couple credits their common Christian Faith and Christian living as the most important factors in their marital success.
tion.You may also send an email to centralallclass2009 @yahoo.com
Soldan Class of 1981 is looking for all classmates for the up coming Class Reunion Weekend September 2-4 2011. For details you can find info on Facebook or vontact Johnny Franklin at (314) 565-2056 or jfstar@sbcglobal.net, Valerie Greene at valgreene901@yahoo.com or Larry Hill, www.LarryHillForSheriff.com. This Reunion is open toall our classmates that went to other schools but were in our Junior class as well.
SumnerHigh School Class of 1956 will celebrate its 55-year reunion at the Marriott St. Louis Airport Hotel, July 1517,2011.Fri-meet and greet, Sat. -dinner dance and Sun.brunch. You may contact Dot at 314-821-5931 or email beangloria@sbcglobal.net for more information.
SumnerClass of 1976 is hosting their 35-year reunion August 19-21, 2011 with celebrity MC Bernie Hayes Saturday at the banquet. Registration is $85 through July 18 and $90 until August 10, 2011.All classmates are encouraged to participate. Next
class reunion meeting is Tues., July 19, 2011 at the St. Louis County Library, Natural Bridge Branch (small meeting room) 7606 Natural Bridge. For more info,contact Betty Louis at 314.385.9843 or Silvester Johnson at 314.807.3652oremail:sumnerclassof76@yahoo.com.
SumnerHigh School Class of 1991 is preparing for its 20year reunion August 13, 2011. We are looking for classmates of 1991 who graduated with our class as well as those who started with us freshman year as a part of the class of 1991. The class of 1991 would also like to invite the Sumner class of 1992. Please email your information to: Sumnerhigh1991@yahoo.com or for further information contact Deanna Bonner 314-9208103 or Leslie Thompson 314495-1665.
Vashon High School Class of 1966 ispreparingfor its 45year reunion in October 2011. We are seeking all classmates. July 14-19-$599—Motor coach to New YorkCity “The Big Apple”Contact person: Charlotte First, Phone:314766-9344;E-mail: 1stclassvt@gmail.com. September 30—Class Reunion Meet & Greet, Embassy
Do you have a celebration you’re proud of? If so we would like to share your good news with our readers. Whether it’s a birth, graduation, wedding, engagement announcement, anniversary, retirement or birthday, send your photos and a brief announcement (50 words or less) to us and we may include it in our paper and website – AT NO COST – as space is available Photos will not be returned. Send your announcements to: kdaniel@stlamerican. com or mail to: St. Louis American Celebrations c/o Kate Daniel 4242 Lindell Ave St. Louis, MO 63108 FREE OF CHARGE
Reunion notices are free of charge and based on space availability. We prefer that notices be emailed to us! However, notices may also be sent \by mail to: Kate Daniel, 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
Suites/Airport, 11237 Lone Eagle Drive, Bridgeton, MO 63044. October 1—45th Class Reunion, Embassy Suites/Airport, 11237 Lone Eagle Drive, Bridgeton , MO 63044. For more information contact:Marilyn at 314-4388338, Betty at 314-524-3324 or e-mail us at vashonclassof1966@yahoo.com.
RELIGION
Lane celebrates Men’s Month with female bishop
Teresa E. Snorton makes history in 141-year-old C.M.E. denomination
Special to The American
Lane Tabernacle C.M.E.
Church celebrated Men’s Month this June. The monthlong observance began with a special showing of The Swing Set starring Lane Tabernacle’s own Bernie Hayes. The movie was shown in its entirety on June 1 in the D.I. Isom Community Center.
Prior to the showing, the Men’s Day Committee held a special red carpet reception which modeled a Hollywood premier. As guests arrived they were photographed walking the red carpet into the screening room. Hostesses were on hand serving hors d’oeuvres as guests mingled with each other and got the chance to have their picture taken with Bernie Hayes, a radio legend and veteran of the music industry.
The month-long observance continued with a jazz legends tribute by Lane’s guitarist, Chris Burchett. Burchett is a nationally known bassist who is considered one of the most inluential young guitarists on the music scene today. Burchett and his band played the music of Miles Davis, John Coltrane, Wayne Shorter, Wes Montgomery and Jimmy Smith each
Friday and Saturday in the Isom Community Center. On each Saturday the show also included a dinner.
Each Sunday, the Rev. Dr. James T. Morris, pastor at Lane, delivered a message emphasizing the role God intends for men to have in the spiritual life and witness of society.
On Father’s Day, Sunday, June 19, Dr. Morris left the preaching to the dynamic
Bishop Teresa E. Snorton of Birmingham, Ala.
Bishop Snorton – elected in June of 2010 as the irst female bishop of the 141-year-old denomination – was assigned the presiding bishop of the Eleventh Episcopal District, which includes 11 countries in Africa.
On March 15, after the untimely death of Bishop W.E. Lockett, she was assigned to the Fifth Episcopal District encompass-
On Father’s Day, the Rev. Dr. James T. Morris, pastor at Lane Tabernacle C.M.E. Church, left the preaching to the dynamic Bishop Teresa E. Snorton of Birmingham, Ala., the irst female bishop of the 141-year-old denomination.
ing the states of Alabama and Florida.
She holds a doctorate of Ministry degree from the United Theological Seminary and has served on the faculties of Louisville Presbyterian Seminary in Kentucky, the Medical College of Virginia and the School of Theology at Virginia Union University in Richmond. She is also a certiied pastoral care counselor.
When asked why a woman was selected to preach during Men’s Emphasis Month and on Father’s Day, Dr. Morris replied, “Well, I know Bishop Snorton. She and I grew up in Kentucky, not too many miles from each other, and she is one of the best minds in our church. I knew she would give the men of Lane something to think about.”
Bishop Snorton preached on the theme, “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord and he delights in His way” (Psalm 37:23).
The historic, 113-year-old Lane Tabernacle is located at 910-916 North Newstead Ave. Worship service begins at 10 a.m. For information or a ride to services, call (314) 5330535.
INSPIRATIONAL MESSAGE Unmask the deceivers in your life!
By Michael Whitley For The St. Louis American
I was recently asked by a friend, “Would you still continue to do whatever you wanted to do or make the decisions you want if you knew you were being deceived?” My immediate answer was, “NO, of course not!” Let me be clear about what deception or being deceived means. It is to mislead by a false appearance or statement; to dupe, fool, hoodwink, trick, defraud, entrap, ensnare, betray or cheat. It also suggests deliberately misleading or deluding to prevent someone from knowing the truth.
Our society thinks that their lives will be much better with millions of dollars in the bank, a model-type looking man/ woman on their arm, driving the latest sports car and wearing the latest fashions. Make no mistake, I like good living and can appreciate being blessed in possessions and lifestyle. However, people are willing to be deceived by “selling themselves” for an image, but may still be unhappy, miserable or sometimes even suicidal at times because they were duped or deceived while being attracted to these perceived success givers.
Well, many people do exactly this. They get distracted in life and think or live a delusional lifestyle based on a deceived mentality. This mentality includes money, fame, status, academic achievements or a great job.
I’m a irm believer in the infallible Word of God and the scriptures penned from Genesis to Revelations. The Word of God tells us in Galatians 6:7: “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” To sow is to plant seed or to implant, introduce, seek to extend; disseminate; a great example is to sow (speak) distrust or dissension with others.
Many people are making life decisions daily in a very careless manner, maybe not realizing that these decisions (seeds sown) now will produce a harvest (results) one day that could negatively impact their lives forever.
The Bible lets us know that in order to really live, follow Jesus Christ in life, Matthew 16:24-26 says, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross and follow me. For whosever will save his life shall lose it: and whosever will lose his life for my sake shall ind it. For what is a man proited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?” NOTHING! Don’t be deceived thinking that your way of living is better or will produce a greater harvest (successful results) than the life God gives through His son and our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He has a plan in store for YOU! Don’t be deceived, remove the masks (false success givers) from your life and be FREE in your journey with Jesus Christ! Do it today. Now. Start really living!
Michael Whitley
Celebrity Swagger Snap of the Week
The one and only Don King managed to soak inafewfestivitiesfrom Marine Week while in town for his latest ight (which would end with a victory for St. Louis’ own Devon Alexander against Argentinean Lucas Matthysse). King was on hand as Hot 104.1 FM played softball against the Marines at Fairgrounds Park and Roxanne was one of the lucky fans to land a picture with the legendary boxing pro-
A Heroic night. AbesiPR put together a rather enjoyable and festive evening for Roland Williams’ Night of Heroes Celebrity Gala at Lumiere Place’s newest restaurant, Stadium, last Friday night. I must say that Stadium is a very nice replacement to Sleek, which closed earlier this year. In place of the upscale pricey eatery is the sports lounge that features St. Louis sports memorabilia, numerous HD latscreen televisions, and is also home to a broadcast of Fox Sports Midwest Cardinals post-game show in a custom-made studio. Roland was all smiles as everyone from professional athletes to St. Louis big wigs were all on hand in cocktail dresses and button ups to celebrate highlighted police oficers, ireighters, and community activists who have made a strong impact in the area. The inlux of notable faces was so much, I couldn’t retain them all. However, from what I could, I saw Orlando Pace, Cedric Cobb, and Sande Stevenson. Based on the many chiseled jaw lines and robust frames, I know there were also a host of professional athletes present. I would have tried to meet and greet the eye candy, but I was way too busy helping myself to the delicious ribs and steak that were provided. Who wants to greet anyone with a barbeque sauced ring around the mouth? Overall this was a pretty nice night to rub elbows with champions. A special shoutout goes to Abesi for taking care of us media folk.
Look, it’s Boys II Men!.. No wait…Does anybody remember that show “Sing Off” that seemed to have every Uncle Ruckus and Aunt Bam perched around television screens every week? For those that don’t, it was a singin’ competition that featured a cappella groups competing for a $100,000 recording contract. For those that do, then you remember last season’s winners, Committed who rolled through St. Louis at the Old Rock House last Thursday. Let me say, the concert wasn’t exactly what I thought it would be. I confess that I wasn’t a fan of the show. But seein’ how many supporters of the group had every social networking site ablaze during their tenure on the show, one would think that they were actually serving Boys II Men or Take 6 tease. The reality: more like a milk chocolate Backstreet Boys. All six men of Committed are talented; I won’t hold that against them. However the bubblegum delivery and corny dramatics, for me, were hard to digest. While their harmonies were tight and crisp, the clichéd pop boy band choreography and goofy dialogue in between such depleted my interest. I would have preferred a more classic display of them sitting on aligned stools as they allowed their gift to be the show rather than their quiet immaturity. Hopefully for these boys, reinement will come in time as they are set to release their debut album in August.
A summertime Friday alternative. Summertime fun was deinitely in full swing for Friday Alternative at Lola last Friday night. The newly crowned Riverfront Times best DJ, (Nappy) Needles showed why he was deservin’ of the title. What’s great about Needles is that he can easily adapt to any crowd from boasting the hottest of underground and afro beat to goin’ hard on the mainstream hip hop. The crowd was seemingly appreciative as they boogied the house down. Peek toe heels and backless dresses were clearly out in full force as drinks were being passed out like unemployment checks. Lola is obviously upping the ante with their drink presentation (either that or it was an early Independence Day celebration) as one drink seemed to be on ire. As it dazzled sparks, I quickly ducked my head because I refused to set my good yaki on ire. I paid good money for this human hair! Anyway, Friday alternative is deinitely worth checkin’ out as it serves as a nice substitute to the typical night club scene.
A tribute it for a king. If The American ever decides to do a “Best Of” feature, my vote would deinitely go to DJ Needles for being one of the hardest workin’ DJs I have seen. The Soulition’s MJ Tribute that went down at J. Bucks Saturday night had to be the third event where I saw him spinning – and it was only halfway through the weekend! That didn’t slow him down as he carried this itting tribute for our King of Pop, Michael Jackson. It was hard to sit still when Jackson 5 hits saturated the lower level venue as folks like Coco Soul responded with a good ole hip rock. There is no denying his impact as the crowd rocked to his tunes until the early morning. So much so that impromptu impersonators were birthed. Decked in a simple button down and denim shorts, one guy knew every pop lock and inger point that was made famous by Jackson. The crowd stood back as a Moonwalk with an accompanying high kick was almost successfully attempted. This deinitely added to a very memorable night for a memorable man.
A few summer previews. As the summer days are beein’ up and we are headin’ into the holiday, I thought a preview of events and concerts would be appropriate for those that are preppin’ to take advantage of these hot St. Louis days. Bobby Womack will be rollin’ into town at the Ambassador this weekend. His concert is set to take place Saturday, July 2nd at 7pm and will also feature Latimore. This would be a good one to bring Auntie Peaches to! Also, one of our favorite local artists Bradd Young will be beltin’ out some tunes at the Loft on Sunday, July 3rd at 9pm. This would be a nice one for the young bloods. For all my middle aged lovelies, Bell Biv Devoe will be in concert on the steps of the Arch in part of the Celebrate St. Louis concert series on July 15th at 8pm. The “Poison” singers are sure to keep old school fanatics enthused as they pop lock through their staples. Here’s hoping they touch on a few New Edition offerings. There you go kiddies, govern yourselves accordingly!
Did you know that we are on Facebook too? And by we, I mean Partyline! If you are looking for a quick way to keep up to date on all of Partyline-covered events, keep it locked on our Facebook page. Look us up by typing in Partyline by the St. Louis American in your Facebook search bar and like us! From there you can contact us with any questions or concerns and even interact as we feature events!
JoAnn and Selena J @ Friday Night Alternative @ Lola
Bethal and Nicole Harris hit the red carpet for Roland Williams Night of Heroes for Youth Lifeline America Charity Event Friday night @ Stadium in Lumiere Place
Akeela,Raquel and Rachel Friday night @ Lola
Roland Williams was all smiles at Stadium Friday night for his Night of Heroes charity event for Youth Lifeline America @ Lumiere Place
Keisha and Chelly @ Sexy As You Wanna Be Sundays @ The Loft
Miriam,Birthday girl Patricia, Cynthia, Patricia and Thresa hanging out @ Sista Girl Tuesday @ The Loft
Will and football star Derek Stanley @ Roland Williams Night of Champions @ Lumiere
Dj Jewel on the 1s and 2s for Sista Girl Tuesdays @ The Loft
moter.
Kemitz,Bridgette,Toni, Yonnie, Quin, Trese, and Tracy @ Sexy As You Wanna Be Sundays @ The Loft
Shonte and Michelle Friday night @ Lola
Ashley and her girls looking fabulous Saturday night @ J Bucks
Judges Abe, Andre, Shaki,Tony “T-Luv” Davis, Mousie, and Dr. Quigless @ The STL Dream Catchers auditions
Photos by Lawrence Bryant
ST. LOUIS AMERICAN
College Club offers scholarships to students
Special to The American
The College Club of St. Louis selected seniors Camilla Hodgson and Neireida Morris of Hazelwood East High School to receive scholarships to pursue their education.
The College Club of St. Louis is a 110-year old organization with the mission of “uniting college women for the promotion of educational, social and other interests beneficial to the community, none of which shall be for profit or gain.” The scholarship is offered to girls who attend school in the city of St. Louis or St. Louis County. The application process rotates among six to eight schools a year. Hodgson will attend Brigham Young University to study theatre and communication. Morris will attend Truman State University to study pre-law and biology.
“It’s really exciting. I’m looking forward to going to college,” said Morris.
She enjoyed her senior year on the track team. She competed in the 100- and 300-meter hurdles and was a team captain. She was involved in Peer Leaders, National Honor Society and served as co-captain of the varsity cheerleading
Plus, minority high schoolers study pharmacy over the summer
squad.
“It’s been a lot of fun,” Hodgson said of her senior year, especially her work in theatre. She played the role of Vera Claythorn in a production of “And Then There Were None.”
In addition to theatre, she is involved in National Honor Society, Future Business Leaders of America, Cappies and was the president of Thespians.
The scholarship can only be applied toward tuition and supplies, and can be used at any college during freshman year.
Barbara Natoli, secretary of the scholarship committee, said the applicants must be in the top 25 percent of their class, have three references, score an 18 or higher on the ACTcollege entrance exam, and must be involved in activities at school or in the community.
Pharmacy studies for summer
Nearly 100 St. Louis-area high school students – most of whom are minorities – will learn firsthand about the profession of pharmacy by participating in two summer pro-
Camilla Hodgson and Neireida Morris,seniors at Hazelwood East High School,are recipients of scholarships from the College Club of St.Louis.
grams at St. Louis College of Pharmacy (STLCOP).
Both programs provide exposure to career opportunities in pharmacy and aim to increase interest in health carerelated professions. According to the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy, minorities account for about 12 per-
cent of the total number of doctor of pharmacy degrees conferred. However, minorities make up a third of the U.S. population.
The Walgreens/St. Louis College of Pharmacy Career Explorers Program is a 20-day session, which runs June 13 through July 9 and is one of
only two such in the nation sponsored by Walgreens. Since its inception in 2001, more than 250 students have participated, and nearly 50 percent have enrolled in pharmacy schools throughout the nation, said Freddie Wills, the program’s coordinator and STLCOP’s director of diversity.
This year, 25 students are participating and will learn about the history of pharmacy, how to read prescription abbreviations, calculate dosages for prescriptions and fill prescriptions. They take hospital tours and participate in laboratory compounding exercises –developing medications such as lip balm, ointments and calamine lotion. Students will also alternate between STLCOPand St. Louis-area Walgreens stores, working as pharmacy technicians for 10 days.
Additionally, students will work with mentoring Walgreens pharmacists to learn about the company and its pharmacy system. Along with a certificate of completion, each participant will receive a $1,200 stipend.
The BESt Pharmacy Summer Institute is a six-week program, which runs through
July 22, exposes students to pharmacy and academic rigors associated with attending college. BESt focuses on academic enrichment (mathematics, science, and English), ACT/SATpreparation and professional development. This year, 60 students from 26 St. Louis area high schools will participate. The 15 who are high school seniors will live on campus at STLCOP’s Residence Hall – gaining a college-like experience. Of the seniors, six participated in the program last year. Participants will receive a stipend of between $1,000 and $1,400. BESt is a partnership between Barnes-Jewish Hospital, Express Scripts and STLCOP. It started in 2008 and nearly 125 students have participated since its inception. More than 50 percent have enrolled in pharmacy schools and 86 percent have chosen health care-related majors, said Dr. Steven Player, co-director of the program and inpatient pharmacy manager at BarnesJewish Hospital.
The BESt Pharmacy Summer Institute also won a 2011 Salute to Excellence Award from the St. Louis American Foundation.
