March 31st, 2011 Edition

Vote Tuesday, April 5

Broad community support for Hattie Jackson for trustee Page A14

‘An open set of arms to the public’

Chalana Oliver reaches out to

community for Jake Zimmerman

By Rebecca S.Rivas

Of The St.Louis American

Chalana Oliver will never forget the day she learned she would be sworn into the Missouri Bar.

Oliver, the political director for state Rep. Jake Zimmerman’s campaign for St. Louis County Assessor, recalls reading her name from an online list on April 31, 2010.

“I collapsed on the floor and started bawling,” she said.

“Everything I fought for. Folks who said I couldn’t do it along the way. My grandparents telling me I could do anything. All of that culminated.

“Being here has been very inspirational,” Northwest High School senior Michael Washington said of the 37th annual National Society of Black Engineers Convention held Wednesday, March 23 through Sunday in St. Louis.“It’s showing me the basics of being successful and how I want my future to look.”

Zimmerman has the support of U.S.Rep.Wm.Lacy Clay, County Executive Charlie A. Dooley and many other AfricanAmerican elected officials.

My mom picked me up and said she was proud of me.” Oliver, a proud graduate of Hazelwood Central High School in North St. Louis

Chalana Oliver is the political director for Jake Zimmerman’s campaign for St.Louis County Assessor.The election is Tuesday,April 5.

NSBE overtakes St. Louis

East St. Louis turns 150 with celebration on Friday

“The City will observe its 150th birthday by celebrating its past, present and bright future.”

the 150th anniversary of

of

Louis. And East Boogie is

a birthday party from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Friday, April 1 at East St. Louis City Hall Building, 301 River Park Dr. “The City will observe its 150th birthday by celebrating its past, present and bright future,” promised organizers from the City of East St. Louis

2011 Health Care awardees

Celebration luncheon April 29 at Ritz Carlton

By Sandra Jordan

Of The St.Louis American

National Society of Black Engineers convenes in STL Birthday party for East Boogie

By Andrew Fowler For the St.Louis American

This past week and weekend, St. Louis was the center of the world for African-American engineers. The 37th annual National Society of Black Engineers Convention brought 8,000 NSBE members to town, including professionals from a wide range of fields and students of all ages. The convention, held Wednesday, March 23 through Sunday in downtown St. Louis at America’s Center, set out to “engineer the gateway to

“For the pre-college students, this event gives them the reason why you should take your education seriously,”

– NSBE’s Executive Director Carl Mack

success.”

By all accounts, they succeeded. One of many great moments at the convention came from NSBE’s Executive Director Carl Mack. He made very plain the convention’s value to its many Pre-College Initiative student participants.

“For the pre-college students, this event gives them the reason why you should take your education seriously,” Mack said.

“You have recruiters looking for young, educated people. These young people are getting jobs here because they are selling their minds.”

He then made a remarkable gesture on behalf of Brian Scott Allis, a student at Youngstown State University who attended the convention.

“Because Brian carried his weight, I’m going to help him the rest of the way,” Mack said. Mack then personally handed Allis’ resume to Irene Kendall, the diversity officer for Apple Inc. – one of many recruiters in attendance – and introduced student and recruiter to talk about job opportunities. Ronald Moore headed the conven-

The St. Louis American Foundation will recognize eight local professionals with its 2011 Excellence in Health Care award at the 11th Annual Salute to Excellence in Health Care Awards Luncheon at the Ritz-Carlton on April 29.

Christal L. Adams, RN, BSN has been a registered nurse at Barnes-Jewish Hospital for nine years and is currently studying to be an adult nurse practitioner at Goldfarb School of Nursing at Barnes-Jewish College. The compassion and concern for others displayed by her mother as a nurse’s aide, Adams said,

Photo by Wiley Price

Photo by Wiley Price

Papa Knowles parts ways with Beyonce for gospel music

The entertainment world was shocked to learn that singer Beyonce would no longer be managed by her father Mathew Knowles There has been no word on who will fill Knowles’ shoes, but rumor mill al ready has Beyonce’s mogul husband Jay-Z on deck.

Knowles released a statement explaining his doing so was so that he could focus on his gospel music venture.

“The decision for Beyonce and Music World Entertainment to part was mutual. We did great things together, and I know that she will

the gospel/inspirational genre of music and on our supremely talented roster of artists, including Trin-i-tee 5:7, Brian Courtney Wilson, Juanita Bynum, Micah Stampley, Vanessa Bell Armstrong, Pastor Rudy and others.

Business is business and family is family. I love my daughter and am very proud of who she is and all that she has achieved. I look forward to her continued great success.”

Neighbors riled up by Chris Brown’s rowdy ways

lion on the 3,000 square foot, three bedroom, three-and-a-half bathroom penthouse condo.

“He just moved in around a month ago and he’s already received a warning,” the tenant told TMZ.com.

Steve Harvey snaps at crowd during gala

Just weeks after moving into his West Hollywood condo, singer Chris Brown is said to be creating a ruckus in his building.

“He has his posse traipsing around until the late hours of the night,” an anonymous neigh bor told TMZ.com. “He’s loud and totally

Most of the crowd seemed to revel in Steve Harvey cutting up at a charity event he was hosting last week. But at some point during the event he apparently detected a chill among a few in attendance and decided to fire back at them from the podium.

“I’m comfortable with me,” he said. “Some of you have not made the necessary adjustments to deal with me. To the eight of you who looked

Nail shop tantrum gets Foxy tossed from Fantastic Voyage

More insight about the incident that led to Foxy Brown was kicked off The Tom Joyner Fantastic Voyage has become available and the rapper is reportedly back to her old tricks.

According to TMZ, Brown set up a nail appointment on the Royal Caribbean cruise ship last Monday, a day after the cruise took off, and showed up three hours late.

The staff at the salon couldn’t accommodate her when she finally decided to show up, and Brown had one of her infamous hissy fits.

According to sources, security removed her from the salon and sent her back to her room — where she remained under supervision until Wednesday when the ship dropped anchor in the Cayman Islands and authorities kicked her off. Brown, who performed on board the day be-

Who are the tyrants?

This column was supposed to be dedicated to the late civil rights and women’s right advocate Fannie Lou Hamer, highlighting Women’s History Month. But the developments in Libya and President Obama authorizing the launch of Tomahawk missiles at the capital Tripoli and the western city of Misrata changed my mind. It leads me to ask, “Who are the tyrants?” The reasons given were to force Muammar Gaddai’s troops to cease ire and end attacks on civilians, but are we getting the real story? There was no mention of protecting the oil ields, or a mention that Gaddai was defending himself and his country from rebels who were trying to overthrow him and seize power by force.

tials Committee at the Democratic National Convention, Mrs. Hamer said, “I question America. Is this America, the land of the free and the home of the brave, where we have to sleep with our telephones off

the hooks because our lives are threatened daily, because we want to live as decent human beings, in America?”

Mrs. Hamer said, “What was the point of being scared? The only thing they could do to me

was kill me, and it seemed like they’d been trying to do that a little bit at a time ever since I could remember.”

So who are the tyrants?

Listen the Bernie Hayes radio program Monday through Friday at 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. on WGNU-920 AM or www.wgnu920am.com. The Bernie Hayes TV program airs Saturday night at 10 p.m. and Friday Morning at 9 a.m. on KNLC-TV Ch. 24. I can be reached by e-mail at: berhay@swbell.net.

I am not surprised at the actions taken against Gaddai because recently radio talk shows and late-night television hosts have been laughing at and making negative references to ‘Khadafy’s bad hair.” I also notice the many ways his name is spelled and pronounced. In common usage, the word “tyrant” carries connotations of a harsh and cruel ruler who places his or her own interests or the interests of a small group of people over the best interests of the general population, which the tyrant governs or controls. That sounds familiar. Is this the argument that is used to justify the attack on Libya? We must remember that we are getting only one side of the story. In his book Media Control Noam Chomsky noted the United States pioneered the public relations industry. Its commitment was “to control the public mind,” as its leaders put it. Was Thomas Jefferson a tyrant? Did he inlict dictatorship or oppression on Americans? Jefferson wrote, “The strongest reason for the people to retain the right to keep and bear arms is, as a last resort, to protect themselves against tyranny in government.” Was he a liar and a hypocrite?

On January 10, 1806, President Jefferson addressed a gathering in front of the White House. The occasion was a concluding ceremony following a series of meetings with the chiefs of the Cherokee Indian Nation, and others, who had been invited to Washington as a gesture of friendship. Seven treaties with the Cherokee later, the United States took all Cherokee land east of the Mississippi River. In exchange the Cherokee were given $5 million and an Indian Reservation in Oklahoma Territory. Of course, the Cherokee were never handed $5 million. That’s the amount that was to be spent on their behalf, for public facilities and “mills to grind your corn.”

But he also wrote about Africans and African Americans in his Notes on Virginia: “Comparing them by their faculties of memory, reason, and imagination, it appears to me, that in memory they are equal to the whites; in reason much inferior, as I think one black could scarcely be found capable of tracing and comprehending the investigations of Euclid; and that in imagination they are dull, tasteless, and anomalous.” These are the words of slave owner Thomas Jefferson. America was the model for Apartheid in South Africa, and America created the eugenics movement – ensuring “the more suitable races or strains of blood a better chance of prevailing speedily over the less suitable.” Wealthy individuals from within the highest levels of the American exploiting class funneled hundreds of thousands of dollars into the eugenics movement. Laws were implemented in state legislatures to prevent the procreation of “inferior families.”

Fannie Lou Hamer felt the stings of apartheid, racism and tyranny. On August 22, 1964 in Atlantic City, New Jersey, in testimony before the Creden-

Bernie Hayes

EDITORIAL /COMMENTARY

Yes for Prop E, Jackson, Zimmerman

It is due to the legislative activism of one man, the wealthy free market ideologue Rex Sinqueield, that voters in the city of St. Louis face Proposition E on the Tuesday, April 5 ballot. Sinqueield funded a ballot initiative, which passed statewide, restricting other municipalities from passing an earnings tax and forcing city voters in St. Louis and Kansas City to vote every ive years to retain the one cent earnings tax paid by people who work in those cities. AYES vote on Proposition E in St. Louis retains the tax – the city’s single largest and most reliable revenue stream – while if Prop E is defeated, the earnings tax would be phased out. There is no joy in defending a tax, but the fact is St. Louis city government has no acceptable plan yet for replacing roughly one-third of its tax revenues. The earnings tax sometimes is called a “public safety” tax, because the money it brings in is roughly equal to the budget allocations for ire and police protection. Further, people who work in the city and pay these taxes beneit as surely as residents from public safety in the form of protection by the police and ire departments. Anyone who wants a safe, livable – indeed, viable – St. Louis must vote YES ON PROPOSITION E.

City voters also will elect the trustee for Subdistrict 2 of the St. Louis Community College District, which oversees the community college system. This race has additional importance as the board is conducting a search for a successor to Zelema Harris, who is leaving her post as chancellor. Incumbent Denise R. Chachere, who also chairs the Board of Trustees, is standing for reelection, and she has done an honorable job. However, this six-member board has no AfricanAmerican representation, although it oversees instruction for a system where nearly 30 percent of its students are black (according to Fall 2007

statistics) and an annual operating budget of almost $200 million. Two African Americans have iled for the Subdistrict 2 trustee seat, and we ind one of them, Hattie R. Jackson, particularly qualiied for this important community service. In fact, Jackson is the most qualiied candidate for the seat regardless of demographics. She taught in the SLCC system for 39 years and rose to become a faculty dean. She also has educational board experience, having served six years on the St. Louis Public Schools board with a stint as board president, among a great many other civic leadership roles. Because of her experience in the district, credibility in the community and her announced priorities for the district, we strongly endorse HATTIE R. JACKSON AS TRUSTEE.

St. Louis County is now electing its tax assessor again after 40 years, and we expect most of our readers to vote for the Democratic candidate, Jake Zimmerman. With a number of contested races for mayor, and school and ire board, in North County, we expect a signiicant AfricanAmerican turnout in the county on April 5. Most black voters have not had a chance to vote for Zimmerman before; he is from Clayton and represents a central corridor zone of the county in the state Legislature. Based in Olivette, he is a proven progressive battler on issues of concern to working people, a passion for public service as well as a degree from Harvard Law School. Zimmerman has one of the sharpest minds in Missouri politics. His Republican opponent is a realtor with no political experience whose real estate company recently was discovered to be two years behind on its own property taxes – a very poor qualiication for a tax assessor. We strongly endorse JAKE ZIMMERMAN FOR COUNTY ASSESSOR.

Fix the charter schools

Any real education reform would begin with fully accessible, free, public, early childhood education. Instead, so-called school “reform” advocates have introduced a myriad of bills aimed at public education. One of the bills currently under consideration is House Bill 473, a proposal to expand charter schools across Missouri.

Some readers may be surprised to learn that charter schools were created by a union president. The American Federation of Teachers’ late president Albert Shanker had a vision of schools run by teachers and parents without interference from administrative bureaucracy. Charter schools that met success as educational incubation labs would then generate best practices that could be replicated in all public schools.

It was never Shanker’s vision that charters would be run by private management corporations with no oversight as separate islands, isolated from teachers and community. And it was never part of the charter school dream that teachers would have roadblocks to joining unions.

AFT is not against charters –in fact, there are now more than 151 unionized charters. Charter schools should not be iso-

lated islands. We should have a comprehensive and systemic approach that improves every school so that all students get the best education. The unfortunate truth is that the clear majority of charters in Missouri have not performed as well as their traditional counterparts. And some charter companies seek to function as educational islands in an unregulated fashion with taxpayer dollars for a proit. Given the current record in Missouri, every effort should be made to help the current charter schools improve. But creating a new bureaucracy, taking away local control and accountability without clearly sorting out governance and transparency, seems short-sighted and ill advised. HB 473 does not answer fundamental questions regarding tax dollars and where they might go. Management irms with appointed boards with little or no parental or teacher input or oversight seems imprudent. If HB 473 were enacted as written, it would make it very dificult for local school boards to plan for the future. In St. Louis, try to follow the taxpayer dollars about who owns a charter building, how much rent is paid to developers and real estate speculators – and what happens to assets when and if a charter school is closed down. There is no clear line of governance in this bill. There is no transparency regarding reporting of taxpayer dol-

Regime change – or not – in Libya

Am I the only one who’s utterly confused about the rationale, goals, tactics and strategy of the U.S.led military intervention in Libya?

Columnist

Eugene Robinson

I call it a U.S.-led operation because, people, let’s be real. Without U.S. diplomatic leadership, there would have been no U.N. Security Council resolution. Without U.S. military leadership, there would have been no coordinated shockand-awe attack to put dictator Moammar Gaddai’s rampaging forces back on their heels.

Last Thursday, after days of bickering, we heard a grand announcement that NATO will take command of the operation. Don’t believe it. The United States will be functionally in charge, and thus on the hook, until this ends.

The oficial mission, under the U.N. mandate, is to protect Libyan civilians. In other words, this is essentially a humanitarian intervention. I get that. After the horrors we’ve seen in Rwanda and Congo, in Bosnia and Darfur, I understand that a powerful moral and intellectual case can be made for using military force – and risking American lives – when it is clear that a slaughter is imminent and can be prevented.

Gaddai’s armored columns were advancing on Benghazi and had other rebel strongholds

such as Misurata under siege. As Obama said in Brazil, “We cannot stand idly by when a tyrant tells his people that there will be no mercy, and ... innocent men and women face brutality and death at the hands of their own government.”

Clearly, there will be occasions when humanitarian military intervention is our duty. This may be one of them. But the goal must be to prevent the bloodbath, not just reschedule it. Even after his forces have been pummeled by U.S., French and British airstrikes, Gaddai has his ragtag opponents outmanned and outgunned. Unless we explicitly take the side of the rebels – providing air support for their advances, for example – it is hard to imagine how they will ever be able to take much ground.

In fact, it seems obvious that as long as Gaddai remains in power, Libyan civilians are threatened. There are neighborhoods of the capital where residents showed open opposition to Gaddai at the beginning of the uprising. Aren’t these civilians in mortal danger? Don’t they need to be protected too?

The only way to end the threat is to depose Gaddai –which is what the United States wants to do. “It is U.S. policy that Gaddai needs to go,” Obama said this week. So is that what we’re really doing in Libya, ousting a brutal dictator?

Absolutely not. The military mission is speciically limited to the humanitarian goal of protecting civilians. According to the White House, we’re not

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Vote on April 5

On April 5, St. Louis County residents for the irst time in 40 years will elect an assessor. That is, with or without you! I am a St. Louis County resident. The outcome of my DRIVE BY assessment raised the taxes on my home despite the fact that my property value went down. That makes no sense! We need to stand up and vote for someone who will look out for St. Louis County and make sure that our assessments match trending property values. It has been proven time and again just how dificult it is to bring minorities to the election booths. Most still feel their vote simply isn’t counted. However, we still have to keep speaking and let our voices be heard. So St. Louis County residents, we need to take hold of our liberty and exercise our right to vote!

lars in this bill. There is little effort at accountability in this bill. Instead, the bill seeks to open the gate to more sponsors (including Mayor Slay and notfor-proits with less transparency) with less oversight by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

Fixing the problems for current charters should happen before consideration of expansion. Careful consideration should also be given of the impact on current public schools, including charters, and conlicts of interest between private interest and public dollars.

Although there is some language regarding accountability in the current bull, it actually expands sponsorship and authorization to more players that have no experience in education or in taxpayer accountability. Who pulls the plug on schools that aren’t working? What recourse do employees or taxpayers have when money is missing or mishandled? As a community, we should be dedicated to giving all of our students the best opportunities. The current bill does not sort out any of these issues.

HB 473 takes some small steps towards accountability, but taxpayers, elected representatives and parents should have their questions regarding governance, transparency, and accountability addressed before opening the barn door.

Clemens is regional vice president, AFT Missouri, AFLCIO

Carlita Vasser, President/CEO St. Louis Healthcare Consulting Services

Calm in Northeast

As president of the Northeast ire district and chairman of the board, I have led the organization back from inancial instability and hostile board meetings. When I irst joined I noticed that at all of our open meetings our secretary’s husband was there by her side. There was so much hostility and chaos that he feared for her safety. I cannot remember the last time I saw him at a meeting.

Bertha Myers stated that at a December 2010 meeting whenever anyone asked a question they were not given the opportunity to communicate. I completely dispute that assertion. I’ve made it my business to be as open and transparent as possible, admonished others for disrespectful comments or actions, and conducted meetings in a way that encouraged civil discourse and respect.

Myers said several residents told her that when people attempted to pose a question about the use of a third ambulance they were verbally attacked and that the “board didn’t even attempt to calm down the room.” Not only were all attendees able to speak in a “calmed-down” environment, those who initially interjected apologized. Instead of allowing hearsay

taking the rebels’ side – and we’re not using military means to unseat Gaddai. Well, maybe someone will launch the occasional cruise missile at his compound, but it won’t be an attempt at regime change. Maybe Gaddai will make it easy for us and decamp to one of the few countries that might be willing to take him. But while he is battered, he’s far from defeated. What if he stays and ights, as he has repeatedly vowed to do. Then what? To fulill our mandate of protecting civilians, we’ll have to enforce the no-ly zone indeinitely. We’ll also have to provide tons of aid so that the rebels don’t starve. But if we’re not going to also give them weapons, it’s unrealistic to expect shotgun-toting shopkeepers and cabdrivers to vanquish what is left of Gaddai’s professional army. So is this the probable outcome, a divided Libya with Gaddai holding the capital – and the oil-producing infrastructure – while the rebels effectively become wards of the United Nations? Or is it more likely that Libya devolves into “a giant Somalia,” as Secretary of State Hillary Clinton fears? Now that we’re involved in Libya, it may be that the only way to get uninvolved is to depose Gaddai – which our military forces are speciically not allowed to do. Hence my confusion. Eugene Robinson’s email address is eugenerobinson@ washpost.com.

All letters are edited for length and style.

to lead us to our conclusions, let’s ask the people who were actually there. We have conducted meetings, and business generally, respectfully, transparently and professionally, allowing everyone interested to have their input.

Derek C. Mays

President, board chairman Northeast Fire Protection District

County should share sales tax

We have grave concerns about the negative effect House Bill 534would have on our communities and all of St. Louis County.

St. Louis County has beneitted over the years from the system of shared sales tax revenues. Understanding the challenges we faced as a region with so many municipalities, knowing that all communities were not equally positioned to provide a commercial tax base to fund city services and realizing that the St. Louis region as a whole would beneit when residents throughout the community had suficient services, civic leaders came up with this unique system.

This system asks some cities to sacriice part of their revenue for the greater good, and helps cities which cannot expand their tax bases because of long-term housing patterns, size of the community and other issues. Almost 70 percent of the residents of this region reside in “B” cities that will suffer if this bill is passed.

Mayor Shelley Welsch

University City

Mayor Tim Pogue, Ballwin

Mayor Norman McCourt, Black Jack

Mayor Anita Mason

Breckenridge Hills

Mayor Jack Agnew

Dellwood

Mayor Robert Lowery, Florissant

Mayor Richard Magee, Glendale

Mayor Benjamin Sutphin

Jennings

Mayor Patrick Green

Normandy

Mayor Mary Louise Carter, Pagedale

Mayor Kenneth Williams,

Uplands Park

Mayor Robert L. Hensley

Velda City

Mayor Earlene Luster

Velda Village Hills

Mayor James McGee, Vinita Park

Mayor Gerry Welch

Webster Groves

Mayor Linda Whitield

Wellston

Mayor Gail M. Winham, Winchester

Mayor Lawrence “Butch” Besmer, Woodson Terrace

The Way I See It - A Forum for Community Issues

Guest Columnist Byron Clemmons

Beware public defender bail scams

The Metropolitan Police Department, City of St. Louis is alerting citizens about a telephone scam that cost at least one senior citizen thousands of dollars.

An 86-year-old woman was contacted by a male caller who identified himself as a St. Louis city public defender. The caller told the victim that one of her relatives had been arrested and was currently in jail.The victim was convinced the call was legitimate, not only because the caller sounded professional, but also because the caller gave the correct name of the victim’s relative.

The victim was told to wait for a telephone call from that relative for further instruction.Later, the victim received a second call from a caller claiming to be the victim’s relative. The caller said he needed $4,400 in order to be released from jail and that the money should be sent via wire transfer.

Believing the caller was indeed the relative, the victim complied.She later learned her relative had not been arrested and that she had been scammed.The victim’s money, which was all the savings she had, has not been recovered and no suspect has been identified.

The department is aware of at least one other instance where a caller attempted the same scam.

Requesting bail money via wire transfer is not a practice of the court system.The police department encourages anyone who receives such a phone call not to send any money via wire transfer as bail for someone being held in a St. Louis city jail.

Missouri State Public Defender Director Cat Kelly advises that Missouri public defenders representing a client will never ask a client or client’s family to pay them money directly. All public defender fees are to be mailed to the State Office in Columbia at the conclusion of a case and restitution payments do not go through the office at all. Anyone being told to send money directly to someone claiming to be a St. Louis public defender should contact the local Public Defender Office at 314-340-7630 or contact the Missouri State Public Defender Office at 573526-5210.

Robots and mentors

Accepting entries forSt. Louis Filmmakers Showcase

The 11th Annual St. Louis Filmmakers Showcase (SLFS), an annual presentation of the nonprofit Cinema St. Louis, is accepting entries now through May 31.

SLFS serves as the area’s primary venue for films made by local artists. SLFS screens works that were written, directed, edited or produced by St. Louis natives or those with strong local ties. It frequently provides the only chance area filmmakers have to display their talents on the big screen.

The film programs that will screen at the Hi-Pointe Theatre in late July will serve as SLFS’s centerpiece. SLFS annually features 15-20 programs over four days, ranging from full-length fiction features and documentaries to multi-film compilations of fiction and documentary shorts. Most programs include post-screening Q&As with filmmakers. For submission application, rules, and entry procedures visit http://cinemastlouis.org/showcase.html.

State helps U. City, Ferguson recoverfrom floods

The Missouri Department of Economic Development has recently awarded Community Development Block Grants to University City in the amount of $461,082 and to the city of Ferguson in the amount of $1.1 million to help in the acquisition and demolition of flood damaged properties. Grant amounts are determined based on correspondence between the block grant staff and the community’s officials, engineers or grant administrators.

Japan, infrastructure and education

By Julianne Malveaux NNPA Columnist

I am among the many who are stilled, freighted, and challenged by the tsunami and nuclear power breakdown in Japan.The tragedy raises all kinds of questions including a very selfish one – what would we do if a tsunami hit the United States?What would happen if New Orleans happened in Washington, New York, or San Francisco?

President Barack Obama has talked about infrastructure development and the many ways that we might improve our highways, byways, and roads.This is a first step.

At a time when we must be prepared to do much more, it appears that we are prepared to do much less.We are in the middle of an economic meltdown, and people are talking about spending less money.Doesn’t Japan suggest we should spend more to shore up our infrastructure?

We in the United States have chosen not to invest in infrastructure for more than a generation.We drive over potholes, look at detours in roads, and send children to school in dilapidated buildings. We know that we could invest more, and we could achieve more, but we have decided we have to pay attention to money.But we also have to pay attention to our future and to outcomes.

Among the outcomes we must be careful of are outcomes in education.It is challenging to find that so very many people think we should cut educational spending because we are in a budget crunch.Cutting education is like a farmer eating her seed corn, deciding to sacrifice consumption today for investment tomorrow.

If we are to excel as a nation, we need to invest fully in education.We’ve not done so.Why do we have crumbling schools and state-of-the-art prisons?

The United States leads the world in having educated people who are 55-64.We lead in the education of seasoned people, but we rank 10th in the education of younger people.That speaks poorly to our possibilities for the future.

What must we do?We must spend the dollars that we need to strengthen our infrastructure.We must put dollars into education.This is hardly the time to cut back on an investment on the future.Instead of holding back, we must move forward, boldly, with our investment.

If we take the call to wake up then we will look at infrastructure and opportunity.Can we learn from Japan, or will we simply offer the compassion that we offer to so many others?Learning means doing something different.Is that within the realm of our possibility?

Malveaux is president of Bennett College for Women in Greensboro, N.C. and author of “Surviving and Thriving: 365 Facts in Black Economic History.”

Julianne Malveaux

Shauntay Binion,a volunteer for the St.Louis Regional FIRST Robotics Competition held recently at the Chaifetz Arena,is mentored by Patricia Smith Thurman,retired MasterCard Worldwide executive.

Photo by Wiley Price

NSBE

Continued from A1

tion’s Pre-College Initiative programming and was instrumental in getting students from many area districts involved.

In one of countless events, Moore brought in four students from Northwest High School in the St. Louis Public School District to present their Emmett Till exhibit. This is the students’second year traveling with the exhibit to middle schools, colleges and events to enlighten people about the impact Till’s death had on the Civil Rights Movement.

One of the presenters was senior Michael Washington, who attended the convention on Friday and plans to study engineering.

“Being here has been very inspirational,” Washington said.

“It’s showing me the basics of being successful and how I want my future to look.”

Washington is currently making the all-important college decision. He is looking at attending Jackson State University or Southern Illinois University in Carbondale.

In general, the convention’s career fair provided an opportunity for NSBE members to network with a wide range of companies, including AT&T, Google, IBM, Intel, Johnson and Johnson, Proctor and Gamble, and many more.

Thomas Mensah, the inventor of fiber optics used in mili-

tary aircraft, began the first African American-owned aerospace company, Georgia Aerospace. He is looking to hire talented NSBE members.

“We want people who are good in basic engineering, highly motivated and want to work very hard,” Mensah said.

“These are the people we think

can be part of the innovation process.”

Mensah won the Golden Torch Award, the highest achievement award given by NSBE, in 2007.

The convention featured seminars taught by successful NSBE members from companies like Dell Inc., HewlettPackard Company and Texas Instruments. There was special

OLIVER

Continued from A1

County, said the memory still brings tears to her eyes. She graduated from Thomas M. Cooley Law School in Lansing, Mich.

Since January, Oliver has put all her energy into getting Zimmerman, 36, elected as County Assessor, a position that residents voted in August to make an elected post. Zimmerman’s Republican opponent is L.K. “Chip” Wood, 56, the chairman of the L.K. Wood real estate company.

The election is Tuesday, April 5.

Oliver stands by Zimmerman, she said, because it would be an insult to her and her community not to fight for what’s right.

“I’ve always tried to stand up for folks who didn’t have a

programming for technical professionals, college undergraduate students, graduate students and Pre-College Initiative students. This was the first year that the U.S. Army was a sponsor for the convention. They hosted their own Army robotics interactive booth. They also worked closely with the PreCollege Initiative as judges for

voice,” she said. “That basic core ideal is driving me every day. I am determined to stay in it for the right reasons. It’s easy to get off track. That’s why I surround myself with people and mentors who have the same ideals as I do.”

The Assessor’s Office is responsible for locating all taxable properties and establishing value for the properties. In August, St. Louis County citizens voted to elect their assessor because they were upset that property values have been fluctuating so much over the past few years, Oliver said. The appointed County Assessor’s Office has been accused of performing negligent “drive-by” appraisals of residential properties and hiking up the valuation.

“In reality, no one is excited about paying property tax,” Oliver said. “But if they felt they were over-assessed, their phone calls were not being answered. Alot of folks

on their robotics in preparation for the Engineering Design Competition organized by the Pre-College Initiative of the National Society of Black Engineers at NSBE’s 37th annual convention held March 23 through Sunday in downtown St.Louis.

the Engineering Design Competition, a two-day competition where students worked in teams. The students’robots had to pass through an obstacle course, pick up a can and place it at particular spot in the course. According to Army publicist Saundra Heath, the U.S. Army wants to connect African Americans to STEM (Science,

walked away feeling like they didn’t get a fair shake. That’s the whole crux of our campaign: to give the fairest assessment.”

Zimmerman, who represents the 83rd District in the state House, graduated from Harvard Law School.He served as deputy chief legal counsel to former Missouri Governor Bob Holden and as assistant attorney general under Jay Nixon. Zimmerman said Oliver’s path reminds him of his own because he also worked on a Democratic campaign just out of law school.

“It didn’t take much time working with Chalana to understand that she is immensely talented,” he said.

“Having someone like Chalana on the team – someone who can reach out to mayors and educators – that’s what we need more of in this office.

She acts as an open set of arms to the public within all segments of the community.”

Technology, Engineering and Math) fields.

“The thing that often our people miss is there was a time in history in which the military was our door to access middleclass life,” Heath said. “And it was through the military that we could purchase our home and have great medical benefits.”

Zimmerman has the support of U.S. Rep. Wm. Lacy Clay, County Executive Charlie A. Dooley, the St. Louis Clergy Coalition, state Sen. Maria Chappelle-Nadal and a large number of African-American elected officials at the state and municipal level in St. Louis County. Oliver said though this race will affect African-American neighborhoods, the voter turnout in April elections is often low.

“Alot of folks feel like they don’t have a voice and voting is one of the main things you can do to make your voice heard,” Oliver said. “African Americans tend to feel they don’t have a part of the political process, but we have the right that others fought and died for.”

Polls are open 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, April 5. Call the St. Louis County Election Board at 314-615-1929.

Photo by Wiley Price

New York students Naeem Nickerson, Kayode Ayo, Uthman Olowa and Mohamed Ibrahim worked

AWARDEES

prompted her to pursue a career in nursing. “My desire is to encourage and teach communities of preventive care and health promotion to ensure a better quality of life,” Adams said. She serves on the member selection committee of Chi Eta Phi, a professional nurses’ sorority, and is a health ministry leader.

Portialyn Y. Peterson, LCSW serves as a lead social worker at SSM Behavioral Health Services at DePaul, a 99bed inpatient psychiatric hospital. In addition to scheduling 10 social workers and five case managers, Peterson also has responsibilities on the pre-adolescent psychiatric unit, where she has been instrumental in developing and improving staff

ESL

Continued from A1

Continued from A1 150th Celebration Committee.

“In spite of overwhelming disasters, including floods, tornadoes, wars, riots, corruption and racial injustice, residents have not only prevailed, but soared to great heights.”

They point to a long list of musicians (Miles Davis), artists and arts organizers (Katherine Dunham), athletes (Jackie Joyner-Kersee), educators (James Rosser, president of California State University–L.A.), filmmakers (the Hudlin brothers) and writers (Eugene B. Redmond) from East St. Louis who succeeded nationally and internationally.

The birthday party on Friday will feature the East St. Louis Senior High Jazz Band, under the direction of Delano Redmond, collaborating with the SIUE Jazz Ensemble,

training for optimum patient outcomes. Last year, Peterson was selected to participate in SSM’s Emerging Leaders program.

Clara Scott, MSW has worked at Betty Jean Kerr People’s Health Centers for 28 years, beginning as a volunteer. Clinic founder and namesake Betty Jean Kerr encouraged Scott to further her education, and she became a social worker. She is known for motivating employees and always thinking of ways to make PHC better for both patients and staff, such as implementing new appointment procedures that doubled the number of patients able to receive care in the same time. In addition, Scott participates in and coordinates health fairs, food drives for patients and staff events.

Darlene Smith is a therapist in the Transitional Care Department at SSM Behavioral Health Services at St. Mary’s. Peers say Smith strives to make therapy groups fresh, interesting and innovative while discussing symptoms,

under the direction of Reginald Thomas, on a performance of “East St. Louis Toodle-oo,” Duke Ellington’s homage to the city, composed in 1926, the year of Miles Davis’birth (in nearby Alton).

The Pom Pon Squad from Paul Laurence Dunbar Elementary School and dancers from the ESL/SIUE Center for the Performing Arts (under the direction of Theo Jamison) also will perform. SIUE Chancellor Vaughn Vandegrift, among others, will issue proclamations recognizing the sesquicentennial.

Community elders in their 80s and 90s will be honored.

According to Eugene B. Redmond, East St. Louis’ longtime poet laureate and its most tireless global promoter, the birthday bash kicks off a year of events that will include a Miles Davis Arts Festival in May, parades, a 4th of July expo and the publication of four books about the city, including “an encyclopedia of

medication management, coping skills and relapse prevention. SSM leadership selected Smith to join a task force to redesign the curriculum. “As a result of her efforts, the entire department has multiple resources, which will allow them to deliver quality, innovative groups to our clients,” her nominator said.

Katina McLeod-Stewart, MHA is the health services manager for the City of St. Louis Department of Health, having started as a supervisor in the maternal child and family health clinic in 1997. Stewart initiated automation of the managed-care billing system, with a time and cost savings for the clinic. In 2000, she became an inspector in the Air Pollution Control Division and was promoted to section chief. As such, she “completely reorganized the asbestos inspection process, which eliminated illegal

East Boogie.”

At the April 1 event, Redmond said, he will give the “purpose” of the commemoration. From talking points he provided to event organizers and the media, and considering his own experience pioneering multiculturalism in university studies, his sense of “purpose” will have a wide scope.

For Redmond’s East St. Louis timeline extends long before April 1, 1861, when the city was founded. He sees an ancient Indian mound civilization that was settled by French Jesuits in the late 1600s, with other Europeans to follow, including Captain James Piggott, who operated the first Mississippi River ferry business. Afew hundred Africans were among the settlers.

“Fast forward,” Redmond notes: “During the 20th century, ESL’s ‘Piggott’Avenue nurtures Scotia Calhoun Thomas (entrepreneur), James Rosser (college president) and Jackie Joyner-Kersee, among others.”

asbestos abatement projects within the City of St. Louis,” her nominator said. Stewart is also a part of the Missouri Public Health Leadership Institute and collaborates with several community organizations.

Mary J. Trice, RN is director of surgical services at Christian Hospital BJC HealthCare. She has been with Christian Hospitals for 37 years, working first in the OBGYN floor with new mothers at the former Christian Northwest before helping to open Christian Northeast. Trice moved through the ranks in nursing to become a manager, then director. She supervises more than 100 employees, including nurses, managers, technicians and facilitators in inpatient and outpatient care. Trice says her scope extends “from the time the patient comes into our doors, they are worked up for the surgery, then we see them through the recovery room.”

Debbie Wade-Wilson, RN, BSN is responsible for the

health needs of more than 1,100 students at Beaumont and Sumner high schools and the Fresh Start alterative program in St. Louis Public Schools. The school nurse is known as a healthy lifestyle advocate for teens, young adults and all students. She is particularly passionate about the health of teen mothers, having worked at the Meda P. Washington Alternative School for mothers-to-be. Wade-Wilson also oversees the athletic medical department for high school games. Having worked for SLPS for the past 16 years, her nominator said, “Debbie always puts the concerns of the student first.”

Deirdre “Dee” Washington, RN is a team leader for the Procedure Center, Post Anesthesia Care Unit and Endoscopy at SSM St. Clare Health Center. Her leadership was credited for a more than 30 percent jump in patient satisfaction scores.

Washington is an electronic medical record expert and meets equipment and instrument needs for physicians in a

timely manner. She also contributed to the design and construction of the health center. Several key committees at SSM utilize her expertise, including nursing peer review, network practice council, medication error reduction, patient satisfaction and culture of service. Her nominator said Washington is a nurse with whom “I would trust my life and the lives of my family.”

The 2011 Salute to Excellence in Health Care Awards Luncheon will be held at the Ritz-Carlton on April 29. Areception will be held from 11 a.m. to noon, and the awards program will follow from noon to 1:30 p.m.

Tickets for the 11th annual Salute to Excellence in Health Care Awards Luncheon are $75 each for VIP/Corporate seats, $50 each for Individual seats and $40 each for General seating. Tables of 10 are available in each price category. For more information and to order tickets, visit stlamerican.com or call 314533-8000.

City says goodbye to Patrice Thimes

‘Mass choir’ for a fallen favorite sister

By Kenya Vaughn

Of The St. Louis American

“My heart is so heavy, I don’t think I have a song,” singer Denise Thimes confessed as she fought back a lood of emotions Saturday morning at Friendly Temple. “Well, I have a song, but I don’t think I can make it through.”

The dialogue was actually from a conversation that took place during the planning process for the inal services for her baby sister, Patrice Thimes – who was tragically killed after being caught in the crossire of a gun battle on her way home last Thursday night.

Even though her songs have been a highlight of homegoing services in the area for years, as the Thimes family said goodbye to Patrice, Denise would stand aside and let someone else have

her song – or at least that’s how it was planned.

But thanks to the support of her sister’s “circle of sisters,” Thimes would be compelled to join Adrienne Felton in a verse of Regina Belle’s “If I Could” while sharing an embrace from Patrice’s group of lifelong friends.

“We don’t say goodbye or farewell, we say see you soon,” a representative from Patrice’s circle said to close their presentation just before the song began.

They talked about her from childhood to her inal days in a way that only the best of “sistas” can do.

“She would give you anything – from the earrings in her ear or the lipstick from her purse,” one of the “sisters” said.

She indeed left an impression on her “sisters” in her life – and

on the entire city in her tragic and untimely death.

“Patrice was able to do what so many of us have tried to do and failed, and that is bringing together a mass choir, a host of pastors and just about a whole city present,” Rev. F. James Clark, pastor of Shalom Church, said has he began the

eulogy.

“We are not here because Patrice has died – we are here because Patrice lived. We are celebrating her life.”

There was a who’s who of the St. Louis community and the state of Missouri on hand to help the Thimes family say goodbye to Patrice, including

Adrienne Felton (right)

embraced Denise Thimes while being surrounded by close friends of Denise’s sister Patrice Thimes during homegoing services Saturday morning. About 3,000 people were in attendance. Patrice tragically was killed after being caught in the crossire of a gun battle on her way home last Thursday night.

politicians, police and community leaders sitting alongside a collective of church families.

“Move into your purpose,” said Denise Williams, Patrice’s church “sister” at Shalom Church (City of Peace). “As soon as we are doing what we’re supposed to be doing, this will not be our family reunion. Get about your business because this happened on our watch.”

Clark suggested that though Patrice was an innocent victim, her death illustrated the potential to stand victorious against the violent crime that has the city under siege.

“The community did a great thing the other day – the community helped solve what happened here,” Clark said. “There were those who took it upon themselves to come forth and say what they knew, and it led to the apprehension of the perpetrators of this crime.”

The swift justice with respect to Patrice’s murder seemed to be an awakening for Clark and others affected by crime and violence.

“Maybe we’ve been looking for a mass revolution of getting back to the basics, but maybe

that’s the wrong approach,” Clark said.

“Maybe it happens room by room and block by block – the way Pastor Michael Jones and Friendly Church is doing it –everybody carrying their own load, and see what happens at the end result of it. But to blame and want to share blame is not the way.”

His remarks were met with a resounding thunder of applause as the thousands in attendance took his words to heart regarding the promises and accountability within the community that must be sustained to stop senseless tragedies like Patrice’s death.

“She was an excellent mother and left a lasting impression on all that knew her,” Clark said. “But not only is this a time to look at Patty’s life, but it is a time to relect upon our own. “

“There are certain things in our communities that may cause us to live in fear, but I want to caution you today,” Clark said. “We ought not to let anything paralyze us or keep us from the things that we have to do in the community that we’ve been called to serve in.”

Photo by Wiley Price

Black Caucus welcomes Kings of HBCUs

Seated, front row: Sen. Robin Wright-Jones; Rep. Sharon Pace; Carlton J. Releford; Mr. Fort Valley State University; Larry Young, Mr. Harris Stowe State University; Davril Massey, Mr. HBCU 2010; Drake Winkey, Mr. University of Maryland-Eastern Shore; Edward Wilcox, Mr. Lincoln University (PA); Richie Cyrus, Mr. Delaware State University; Rep. Karla May; Rep. Rochelle Walton Gray. Standing, 2nd row: Rep. Sylvester Taylor; Rep. Chris Carter; Benecia Spencer-Williams, Lincoln University; Terrell Stringer, Mr. Lincoln University (MO); Todd Porter, Mr. North Carolina AT & T State University; Cornell Williams, Mr. Winston-Salem State University; Jerrod Moore; Simmie Ray Dinkins, Mr. LeMoyne –Owen College; Meldrick Poindexter, Mr. Morgan State University; Dominique Waters, Mr. Central State University; Jeffrey Rashad Pugh, Mr. Howard University; Rep. Clem Smith; Tammy Nobles; Fred Cooke, Delaware State University; Rep. Tommie Pierson. Standing, 3rd Row: John Bowman; Antonio Lewis, president SGA-Lincoln University; Rep. Steve Webb.

Mr. WinstonSalem State University

crowned King

American staff

The Missouri Legislative Black Caucus recently welcomed the Kings of HBCUs from throughout the United States to the Missouri State Capitol Building. Participants were received in the Thomas Hart Benton Gallery and introduced in both the House and Senate chambers.

State Rep. Steve Webb (D-St. Louis County), chair of

the Missouri Legislative Black Caucus, said, “It was with great pride that I introduced the men of these prestigious universities. I commend them for having a positive impact upon the members of the Missouri General Assembly.”

Lincoln University (MO) hosted the 7th Annual Mr. HBCU Kings’ Leadership Conference and Competition from March 2-6, 2011. The mission of the event is to enhance the leadership skills for university males by creating an infrastructure for leadership that enables them to develop as spokespersons, role models and leaders in their universities and communities.

The participants gained insight from expert speakers, and attended forums and workshops. The conference cul-

minated in a competition that showcased each participant’s talent, oratorical skills, ease of manner and professional bearing.

Benecia R. Spencer-Williams, founder of Mr. HBCU Kings’ Leadership Conference & Competition and vice president for university advancement at Lincoln University, said, “We must continue to prepare the leaders of our campuses for their role as leaders in our local and global communities.”

State Rep. Clem Smith (DSt. Louis County), treasurer of the Missouri Legislative Black Caucus, served as a judge for the competition.

“Those young men represented their colleges and universities with the utmost professionalism,” Smith said.

“Their presence at the capitol was noticed and generated a great deal of positive conversation regarding HBCUs. We must continue to support and encourage enrollment at HBCUs in our state. The Missouri Legislative Black Caucus is committed to working with Missouri HBCUs and looks forward to helping out with future events.”

Mr. Winston-Salem State University, Cornell William Jones, a senior from Arlington, Va., was crowned King. He is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. His career ambition is to become an ESPN anchor. His personal philosophy is, “In life, prior proper planning prevents poor performance.”

YWCA hosts

Circle of Women luncheon

American staff

YWCA Metro St. Louis will host its annual Circle of Women luncheon at noon on Thursday, April 14 at the Chase Park Plaza Hotel, 232 N. Kingshighway Blvd. in St. Louis.

The fundraiser supports YWCA programs that focus on race equity issues, housing for women on the move, early learning, crisis intervention, life skills training, and youth and teen development.

“The Circle of Women luncheon will help ensure that inancial resources are there to meet the needs of the 17,000 people in our communities who depend on our landmark programs,” said Adrian Bracy, YWCA CEO.

“St. Louisans are known to be philanthropic, and we especially look to women in

our community to support the empowerment of other women.”

This year’s Circle of Women steering committee is led by Patricia Tripp, marketing agreement specialist for Graybar, a company that specializes in supply chain management services and materials for the electrical and telecommunications industries; and Debbie Hankin, account manager for GFI Digital, Inc., a print, imaging and digital storage management company. During the luncheon, members of the Circle of Women Society will be recognized. It is comprised of contributors who make multi-year pledges of $1,000 or more to support YWCA programs. For more information, call YWCA at 314-531-1115 or visit, www.ywcastlouis.org.

Circle of Women steering committee co-chair Patricia Tripp

Circle of Women steering committee co-chair Debbie Hankin

Freeman to receive Spingarn Medal

Civil rights attorney from STL honored with NAACP’s highest award

American staff

One of St. Louis’ own will receive the NAACP’s highest honor.

Legendary St. Louis attorney Frankie Muse Freeman will be honored with the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People’s Spingarn Medal. Instituted in 1914 by then-NAACP Chairman Joel E. Spingarn, the medal is awarded for outstanding and noble achievement by an African American.

“Frankie Muse Freeman has dedicated her life’s work to the Civil Rights Movement,” said NAACP Chairman Roslyn M. Brock.

“She broke down barriers as a member of the NAACP’s brain trust during the 1950s and as the irst woman to serve on the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights. Her determination to end racial discrimination in American society for more than half a century serves as an inspiration to us all.” Freeman has been a practicing attorney in state and federal courts for more than 60 years. After graduating from Hampton Institute and Howard University Law School, she began her career serving the State of Missouri and the City of St. Louis. She helped the NAACP in the case of Brewton

v. Board of Education of St. Louis, and later represented the NAACP in the landmark case Davis et al v. the St. Louis Housing Authority, which ended legal racial discrimination in public housing.

“We are honored to give Frankie Muse Freeman the highest award that our 102year old organization can bestow,” said NAACP President and CEO Benjamin Todd Jealous.

“As a premiere advocate for African Americans over the past six decades, Freeman embodies the NAACP’s core values. Her record of success is a testament to her compe-

tence and resolve.”

In March 1964, President Lyndon B. Johnson nominated Freeman as the irst woman to serve as Commissioner of the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights. Freeman served on the commission for 16 years, subsequently reappointed by Presidents Nixon, Ford and Carter, until July 1980. She also served as Inspector General of the Community Services Administration during the Carter Administration. In 2003, Freeman published a memoir, A Song of Faith and Hope: The Life of Frankie Muse Freeman Freeman has received nu-

merous accolades for her life’s work, including a number of honorary degrees and induction into the National Bar Association’s Hall of Fame and the international Civil Rights Walk of Fame. She is past chair of the Board of Directors of the National Council on the Aging, Inc. and serves on the executive committee of the St. Louis City NAACP, among many other organizations.

To date, 95 Spingarn Medals have been awarded. Medalists include Dr. Benjamin S. Carson, U.S. Rep. John Conyers, former U.S. Secretary of State Colin L. Powell, Oprah Winfrey, baseball hall of famer Henry “Hank” Aaron, Vernon Jordan, U.S. Rep. John Lewis, William H. Cosby, Jr., Maya Angelou, Virginia Governor L. Douglas Wilder, Rev. Jesse Jackson, Percy E. Sutton, Gordon Parks, John Hope Franklin, the late Judge Leon Higginbotham Jr., Carl Rowan, NAACP Chairman Emeriti Julian Bond and Myrlie EversWilliams, businessman and publisher Earl G. Graves Sr., Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., artist Jacob Lawrence, Rosa Parks, opera singer Leontyne Price, Judge Constance Baker Motley, Judge Robert L. Carter and the late Oliver W. Hill Sr. “I have been a member and engaged with the NAACP for more than 60 years,” said Frankie Muse Freeman. “It is with a great sense of pride and humility that I accept the 96th NAACP Spingarn Award to be presented on July 28, 2011, during the 102nd Annual NAACP Convention in Los Angeles, California.”

Education overhaul

On Tuesday, April 5, East St. Louis voters have an opportunity to do a little political housecleaning and begin the long-overdue process of change in ESL public schools before even more students choose to make a mass exodus from School District 189.

Recent Census data as well as Illinois State Report Card igures reveal that 3,000 children (ages 18 and younger) out of 10, 774 do not attend ESL schools.

Given a school district in which only 14 percent of 11th graders met standards in reading and only 6 percent of those met state standards in math last year, no one should be shocked that parents would be less than enthusiastic about ESL schools.

things if she stayed in town long enough to remain in touch with her school district.

During one recent interview, by reporter Craig Cheatham of KMOV-TV, Saunders did a poor job of justifying thousands of dollars in travel by herself and school board members.

However, ESL School District 189 Superintendent Theresa Saunders, the very person who should be on top of these matters, said she is surprised by these latest revelations.

“It’s important for us to ind out why parents would not want put their kids in our school,” Saunders said to the Belleville News Democrat With a school district that is routinely among the poorest performing locally and statewide, you really don’t know?

I will predict that of the 3,000 “missing students,” some are attending school districts outside of East Boogie using different addresses. Others, including children of District 189 teachers, are enrolled in private schools (if their parents have the means). While others have simply dropped out, the victims of years of miseducation and frustration.

Saunders would know these

One School Board member, Kinnis Williams, after attempting to deny speciic travel expenses, had to reverse himself after being shown documentation by Cheatham). Then HE made matters worse by asserting that he traveled so much that forgets where he has gone. That’s why on April 5 ESL voters must clean house. For example, the “Back to Basics” school board ticket boasts one Khalil El-Amin (formerly known as Albert Jerome Crockett). According to records received from the U.S. Department of Justice, he is a former drug traficker who was released from prison in El Reno, Okla. on April 29, 1974.

One possible option on that ticket is Karen Cason, a retired educator with veriiable credentials and 35 years of experience as a teacher, district administrator and city council member. Former educators Toni Perrin and Joe Lewis are also viable options for voters looking for a change and new blood for District 189’s educationally anemic school board. I hope ESL voters see this as a golden opportunity to change the futures of their children and vote in great numbers on April 5. If they don’t, then they have no one to blame but themselves.

Email: jtingram_1960@ yahoo.com.

Urban League hosts annual dinner

Urban League CEO James H. Buford; keynote speaker Dr. Lawrence A. Davis Jr., chancellor of University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff; and Urban League board chairman Stephen C. Jones, of Armstrong Teasdale, at the Annual Dinner.

The Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis hosted its 93nd Annual Dinner Meeting on Monday, March 7 in the Millennium Hotel Ballroom. More than 1,100 were in attendance to hear the Annual Report to the Community given by James H. Buford, president and chief executive oficer of the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis, and keynote speech of Dr. Lawrence A. Davis Jr., chancellor of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff.

The Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis is the fourth largest afiliate of the National Urban League with a $23 million budget and 207 employees. In 2010, the Urban League received $7.2 million in additional funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, Bank of America, the Greater St. Louis Empowerment Zone, PNC Bank and the City of St. Louis. The League offers programs in Economic Empowerment, Educational Quality and Equality, Meeting Basic Needs, Civic Engagement and Social Justice. At the dinner, Dr. James R. Kimmey, president and CEO of the Missouri Foundation for Health; Clay Thornhill, senior Regional Human Resources manager of Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.; and the Boeing Company were honored with Awards of Merit.

Mathews-Dickey Boys & Girls Club, Kathi Chestnut and Vanessa Keith of Greensfelder, Hemker & Gale, P.C. received the Chairman’s Award from Urban League board chair Stephen C. Jones, of Armstrong Teasdale. Buford said the awards were given for “exemplary service in helping the greater St. Louis community.”

Legendary St. Louis attorney Frankie Muse Freeman

(from a ile photo at the Missouri History Museum) will become the 96th recipient of the NAACP闇s highest honor, the Spingarn Medal, during the NAACP National Convention in Los Angeles July 28 at the annual Spingarn Dinner. Photo by Wiley Price

James Ingram

Former American publisher enshrined

The St. Louis American was one of several newspapers with deceased former publishers who were enshrined in the Gallery of Distinguished Black Publishers at Howard University recently in Washington, D.C. Dr. Clifford L. Muse Jr., Howard University archivist at the Moorland Spingarn Research Center and Dorothy R. Leavell, chairperson of the NNPA Foundation, recognized Charles W. Cherry II (son of Charles W. Cherry Sr., publisher and general manager, Florida Courier and Daytona Times); Fred Sweets (son of N.A. Sweets, publisher of The St. Louis American); and Cloves Campbell Jr. (descendent of Cloves Campbell Sr. and Dr. Charles Campbell, publishers of the Arizona Informant).

NAACP: health reform helps AIDS patients

Affordable Care

Act expanded Medicaid, covered for existing conditions

American staff

Last week the NAACP celebrates the one-year anniversary of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) by recommitting itself to the global fight against HIV and AIDS.

The ACA provided much needed relief for American families struggling to gain access to quality health care. Further, the ACA paid special attention to issues that are prevalent in minority populations.

The ACA has made strides to improve access to insurance for people living with HIV/AIDS and help people with these conditions retain the coverage they have under the law. Insurers are prohibited from cancelling or rescinding coverage to adults or children unless they can show evidence of fraud in an application, and insurers no longer impose lifetime caps on insurance benefits or deny coverage to children living with HIV/AIDS.

Further, the ACA broadens Medicaid eligibility to generally include individuals with income below 133 percent of the federal poverty line ($14,400 for

an individual and $29,300 for a family of four), including single adults who have not traditionally been eligible for Medicaid benefits before. As a result, a person living with HIV who meets this income threshold no longer has to wait for an AIDS diagnosis in order to become eligible for Medicaid.

“It is staggering to think that a group of people that makes up only 13 percent of the country’s population includes over half of the newly diagnosed HIV infected individuals each year,” said Roslyn M. Brock, chairman of the NAACP’s National Board of Directors.

“The uneven distribution of HIV infections indicates that there are specific challenges faced by the African-American community that are resulting in an astronomical increase in the rate at which African Americans contract the HIV virus.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), African Americans represent 13 percent of the U.S. population but account for more than half of all new HIV diagnoses. One in 30 black women and one in 16 black men will be infected with HIV in their lifetime.

One in five HIV-positive Americans – close to a quarter of a million people – have yet to be diagnosed. Alarmingly, African Americans make up the majority of the undiagnosed. Evidence shows that individuals who are unaware of their HIV status are more likely to transmit HIV and less likely to access care and treatment that could improve their quality

of life. Additionally, many are diagnosed late in the course of the disease when treatment is less effective.

The CDC cites the reasons for the racial disparity as not just related to race, but rather to barriers faced by many African Americans. These barriers include poverty, access to healthcare, and the social stigma associated with HIV/AIDS.

“We must not forget the devastating effects HIV/AIDS has on communities of color across this country,” said

NAACP President and CEO Benjamin Todd Jealous.

“The NAACP is committed to being a major force behind the education of communities, and a strong advocate for better health services and HIV/ AIDS testing. Knowledge is the first step to better health, and access to services is critical if we are to overcome this crisis.”

Visit http://www.naacp. org/programs/entry/healthprograms for additional information on NAACP health initiatives.

Dr. Parker H. Word

Mound City Medical Forum members, families and friends mourn the loss of our colleague, Dr. Parker H. Word. Dr. Word passed away on Tuesday, March 22, 2011. He was 89 years old and is survived by his wife, Mrs. Veronica Word and his children, Leslie Leath, Parker M. Word and Lindsey Day. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 10 a.m. at Trinity Mount Carmel Baptist Church, 11755 Mehl Ave., Florissant, MO 63033, phone: 314-8377878.

Dr. Parker Word

Sunrise: June 24, 1921, Sunset: March 22, 2011

Parker H. Word, M.D. came to St. Louis over 60 years ago, with his young bride, Hildred Mathieu, to serve the St. Louis community through the practice of medicine and raise a family. He graduated from Virginia State University in 1941 and Howard Medical School in 1944. He served as a captain in the U.S Army Medical Corps in Germany after World War II. He completed his residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Homer G. Phillips Hospital in 1957. He served on the staff of Homer G. Phillips, Barnes, Deaconess, Christian Community, St. Mary’s and People’s hospitals. He served as the Chief Medical Officer for the City of St. Louis.

Throughout his life, Dr. Word was active civically with the Boy Scouts of America, the NAACP, the YMCA and his fraternity, Omega Psi Phi. He was professionally active in Mound City Medical Forum, the National Medical Association, Chi Delta Mu, the St. Mary’s Medical Society and the American Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology. He leaves three children, Leslie Leath, Parker Word and Lindsey Day; two brothers, Hugo Word and Robert Vaughn; six grandchildren; six great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends. Memorial service: Trinity Mt. Carmel Baptist Church, 11755 Mehl Ave., Florissant, MO, on April 7, 2011 at 10 a.m.

Alnita “Momma” Campbell

It’s like she’s out of town, and she will be returning home soon. But we know she is with “Our Father.” Momma Campbell worked on the Board of Elections for over 50 years. She was the block captain of unit 1187 (2700 block of Dodier St.). She worked for the best people to represent the city of St. Louis; J.B. Banks, William Clay Sr. and Jr., Freeman Bosley Sr. and Jr., Mrs. Pullem at the Urban League, Lewis Ford, April Ford, Larry Rice and many other St. Louis officials. She leaves to cherish her memory and love: 11 children, Vincent, Juanita, Michael Allen (Frank and Francine), Rita, Marilyn, Pat, Steven, Linda and Earl (who preceded her in death); 61 grandchildren; 64 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

Dr. Parker H. Word

Dr. Parker H. Word

Broad community support for Hattie Jackson for trustee

Hattie R. Jackson may have set a record for unanimity of political support in her bid for trustee in Subdistrict 2 of the St. Louis Community College District, which oversees the community college system and its annual operating budget of almost $200 million. Voters in the city of St. Louis will decide on Tuesday, April 5.

Black St. Louis could be expected to support a highly qualiied black candidate like Jackson in this race, given that none of the six trustee seats currently is occupied by an African American – and nearly 30 percent of its students are black (according to Fall 2007 statistics).

Jackson is not the only African American in the race, which also includes incumbent Denise R. Chachere, who chairs the Board of Trustees.

But Black St. Louis has lined up behind her more solidly than any other local candidate in any election in recent memory. Let’s break her endorsements down.

Federal level: U. S. Rep

Wm. Lacy Clay and former Congressman Bill Clay State Senate: state Senator Robin Wright-Jones State House: state Rep. Tishaura O. Jones, state Rep Jamilah Nasheed and state Rep. Karla May

Citywide: Lewis Reed president of the Board of Aldermen, Comptroller

Darlene Green and License Collector Michael McMillan Board of Aldermen: Alderman Frank Williamson, Alderman Jeffrey Boyd, Alderman Sam Moore, Alderman Charles “Quincy” Troupe, Alderman Terry Kennedy and Alderwoman Marlene Davis Committeepeople: Committeeman Claude Brown

include developing new learning programs, establishing new learning centers, and leading the efforts to establish extended options for adults seeking college degrees.”

endorsed her, many of them diverse in membership.

among a great many other civic leadership roles.

endorsements. Federal level: U.S. Rep. Wm. Lacy Clay

State Senate: State Senator Maria Chappelle-Nadal and former state Senator Rita Days

State House: state Rep. Sharon Pace, state Rep. Rev. Tommie Pierson, state Rep. Clem Smith, state Rep. Sylvester Taylor, state Rep. Rochelle Walton-Gray, state Rep. Steve Webb. County government: St. Louis County Executive Charlie A. Dooley and St. Louis County Councilwoman Hazel Erby.

Facing and addressing challenges

NSBE teaches discipline, but needs a new economic model

By Ronald Moore For The St. Louis American

Committeeman Jesse Todd, and Committeewoman Mattie Moore

You can also throw in former mayor Freeman Bosley Jr., former Comptroller Virvus Jones and – a non-black elected oficial who does not often line up on the same side as most of the individuals just named – Mayor Francis G. Slay

We could keep going with the organizations that have

Faith-based: St. Louis Clergy Coalition and Ecumenical Leadership Council. Labor: American Federation of Teachers Local 420, American Federation of Teachers Local 3506, St. Louis Labor Council, AFL-CIO, United Auto Workers Region 5, Coalition of Black Trade Unionists, St. Louis Building Trades Council, Plumbers and Pipeitters Local 562, St. Louis City Labor Club, SEIU, Local 1. It’s not dificult to understand why Jackson warrants such unanimous support. She taught in the St. Louis Community College system for 39 years and so knows it from the inside, including as an administrator, since she served as dean of Academic Support Services and Continuing Education. She was recognized as Teacher of the Year at St. Louis Community College–Forest Park, where she also received the Innovator of the Year Award for developing the irst staff development program focusing on adult learners. The program was later adopted for all SLCC campuses.

She also has educational board experience, in a more contentious environment than she will encounter at SLCC, having served six years on the St. Louis Public Schools board with a stint as board president,

Bishop Jesse Battle, president of the Ecumenical Leadership Council, said, “Hattie Jackson has been an inspiration to thousands of students in the St. Louis area. Her achievements include developing new learning programs, establishing new learning centers, and leading the efforts to establish extended options for adults seeking college degrees.”

The SLCC board currently is conducting a national search for a successor to Zelema Harris, who is leaving her post as chancellor. The board needs experienced, inclusive leadership now, more than ever. With broad support like this, that leadership looks likely to come in the form of Hattie Jackson.

Almost everybody endorses Jake

No one (other than, say, Barack Obama) can quite compare to Hattie Jackson for unanimity of AfricanAmerican support, but Jake Zimmerman, the Democratic candidate for County Assessor on the April 5 ballot, is no slouch himself. Jake is a veteran state representative with a strong progressive voting record, a deep passion for public service and a degree from Harvard Law School, a credential not often found in Missouri politics. Let’s break down Jake’s

Municipalities: Mayor Mary Carter - City of Pagedale, Mayor Charles Ellis - City of Greendale, Mayor Patrick Green - City of Normandy, Mayor James McGee - City of Vinita Park, Mayor Viola Murphy - City of Cool Valley, Mayor David Powell - City of Country Club Hills, Mayor Everett Thomas - City of Northwoods and Mayor Linda Whitield - City of Normandy.

Townships/Villages: Chairwoman Dorothy Moore, Village of Hillsdale; Gwendolyn Reed, committeewoman, Spanish Lake Township; Spanish Lake Township Democratic Club.

Leaving the realm of elected oficials, Jake also has done his legwork with the clergy, netting endorsements from Rev. Sammie Jones, Rev. Earl Nance, Rev. B.T. Rice, Bishop Calvin Scott, Rev. E.G. Shields and Rev. Carl S. Smith Sr.

Unlike the community college race, of course, County Assessor is a partisan election, and one can expect the Democratic nominee to get the vast majority of the black vote. However, in Missouri, you don’t often see the Democratic nominees go out and ask for the black vote sincerely enough to win it in large numbers. Zimmerman has done his legwork, and can fairly expect some of those late returns from North County that have won the day for progressive candidates and issues in recent countywide elections.

The STEM degree – in science, technology, engineering and math disciplines – is the liberal arts degree of the 21st century. The students of today will require a variety of skill sets built around physics, chemistry, math, computer programming and analytical thinking.

One of the biggest impediments to this process is discipline in the classroom; many members of the National Society of Black Engineers have come to the conclusion that without order in the classroom there is very little learning. NSBE’s Pre-College Initiative (PCI) program has existed in St. Louis for 12 years, and we can happily state that we spend almost no time correcting student’s behavior. The point is that we have more time to focus on education and training.

We have worked with over 500 students directly in the history of the program and several thousand through workshops, classroom visits and outreach events. Approximately 80 percent of the students in our program graduate from college, with the vast majority of them getting degrees in the STEM ields.

at the 2006 Annual Convention and, in subsequent years, as treasurer then chair of Region II.

Phelps says, “I want NSBE to be an organization that helps black engineers excel in their majors and helps develop our youth into successful engineering students.”

Phelps adds that his leadership training began early, in the household in which he grew up.

The member of the organization responsible for the convention planning is Mustafa Alamin, 2011 Convention Planning Committee chairperson, a graduate student from UMK where he received his bachelor’s degree and is currently working on his masters in mechanical engineering. This year’s convention is successful because of his efforts. After the convention, the St. Louis Alumni will expand the PCI program with a focus on renewable energy and energy-eficient design. The alumni will host professional classes on solar power design, energy audit training and LEED certiication.

n Approximately 80 percent of the students in our program graduate from college, with the vast majority of them getting degrees in the STEM ields

The unfortunate part of this success story is that most leave St. Louis for better job opportunities. St. Louis as a region must focus on keeping our brightest graduates in the region, and this nation must focus on eficient ways to develop our children in ways that they will prosper as citizens, parents, mentors, entrepreneurs and in the workforce.

The NSBE program is a success because we have a low threshold for disobedience and we high levels of expectations for achievement. We have good parental involvement and the mentoring of the students by collegiate and alumni members is invaluable.

NSBE is the only organization in the world where an African-American child can see 8,000 black engineers in one venue. The organization has grown from 12,000 to 40,000 under the leadership of Carl Mack, national executive director, and we have two dynamic collegiate leaders at the helm of the organization: Calvin Phelps and Mustafa Alamin.

Calvin Phelps, 23, national chairperson, is a master’s degree student in mechanical engineering at Cornell University. A member of NSBE since his junior year in high school in 2004, he served the organization as a Pre-College Initiative conference volunteer

The St. Louis chapter is in the process of incorporating a regional think tank to help solve problems as it relates to education, innovation, job creation and entrepreneurship. Some chapter members and I feel the last frontier for NSBE is economic development. NSBE membership has grown three-fold, but revenue is lat. Our inancial future is based on hope, and that is not a good strategy. As I have talked with member from around the country, the consensus is building that NSBE needs its own revenue stream. One idea is that members would start a holding company with a charter that states that 7 percent of all proits will go toward STEM programs. NSBE has some great leaders, inventors and entrepreneurs within it ranks, such as Arnold Donald, Sandra Johnson, (Ret.) Lieutenant General Joe Ballard, Tony Thompson of Kwame Building Group, Abe and Nicole Adewale of ABNA Engineering and Randall Pickett, winner of Donald Trump’s show The Apprentice NSBE has several hundred members across the country with similar credentials. We must use our synergy to propel our communities to the forefront of modern society. NSBE and the African-American community need a new economic development model. Moore is director of NSBE’s Pre-College Initiative for the St. Louis Metro Gateway Chapter

Jake Zimmerman

Bishop Jesse Battle, president of the Ecumenical Leadership Council, said of Hattie R. Jackson: “Her achievements

Minga and Johnny Furr Launch St. Louis CARES Mentoring Movement

caring mentors in my life.” said Furr.

On March 12, 2011, at Friendly Temple Church, Johnny Furr, Jr., a former AB executive, officially launched St. Louis CARES Mentoring Movement in St. Louis, joining the over 50 CARES circles serving communities throughout the United States, as an affiliate of National CARES Mentoring Movement, founded by Susan Taylor., Editor Emeritus of Essence Magazine. St. Louis CARES mission is to recruit caring adults to become mentors in the St. Louis region. “We are the one-stop source for adults interested in finding ways in which they can become a mentor or support mentoring in St. Louis area, whether it is one on one mentoring, group mentoring, in-school or simply volunteering their time, talents and resources.” said Johnny Furr, who cofounded the non-profit organization with his wife Minga. St. Louis CARES will connect with adults and help direct them to a mentoring organization in the St. Louis region that meets their interest. “What we found, after meeting with St. Louis mentoring organiza tions, is there is a need for a support organization like St. Louis CARES who’s number one priority and focus is to help recruit mentors” said Furr. In St. Louis city and county, there are thousands of young boys and girls, waiting to be matched or connected to a caring adult mentor. Furr stated that the crisis among boys is alarming. More than 70 % of children waiting for mentors are boys, but only 3 out of every 10 volunteers to be mentors come from men. Disproportionately, the children on the waiting list are African-American and Hispanic boys. “As issues impact our communities, especially among our boys… such as increased violence and high school drop out rates—there is clearly a call for action—and it is time for African-American men to answer the call” said Furr. To be a mentor simply means that you are willing to commit one hour a week or four hours a month to help save a young person life.

These positive relationships between youth and their mentors have a direct and measurable impact on children’s lives and helps shape who they will become as an adult.

Mentees are:

More confident in their schoolwork performance

Able to get along better with their families

46% less likely to begin using illegal drugs and 70% of minority children are less likely to begin using drugs, if they have a mentor.

27 % less likely to begin using alcohol, as teens

52% less likely to skip school; helping to reduce the drop out rate here in St. Louis.

Clearly all the evidence points to the fact that mentoring works. During the announcement Furr also mentioned the staggering number of children who have at least one parent in jail. There are over 2 million kids with at least one parent in jail in U.S. There are almost 13,000 children in the state of souri with this situation. But of the nearly 13,000 in Missouri…. 80% or over 10,000, are children living in St. Louis city and county. Mentoring can help prevent the negative cycle of some children of inmates actually going to jail themselves.

St. Louis CARES will support existing mentoring organizations by outreaching to the community and actively recruiting adult mentors for their organizations and by providing meaningful activities for mentors and mentees to bond--- offering a variety of educational, social and cultural programs.

“We know from, our own experiences, as well as national research that having the positive influence of an adult mentor makes a real difference in a young persons life. I went from the Ville neighborhood to corporate board rooms and many other places I never dreamed I would experience. That never would have been possible if I did not have

There are thousands of children in the St. Louis community that need our help and St. Louis CARES is asking the community to join them in this fight to save our children by volunteering, being a mentor and/or making a donation. Furr said, “We each have an opportunity to be a consistent and positive light in a child’s life, a supportive friend who encourages them to set high standards and expectations for themselves, to teach them that they’re special and that they matter. Often we are searching for that one thing that we can do to help the community. Being a mentor and/or supporting mentoring are simple things we all can do to make a difference”. The question Furr asked his audience as he ended his remarks was --- Are you in? Are you willing to join with St. Louis CARES Mentoring Movement to help save a generation of our children?

To join St. Louis CARES please send an email to StlouisCARESmentoring@yahoo. com and/or call 314-535-0705. Please provide your contact information i.e. telephone number, email and mailing addresses, and indicate if you would like to be a volunteer, mentor and/or make a donation. All donations can be mailed to: St. Louis CARES 4579 Laclede Ave. #445, St. Louis, MO 63108. Are you in? Save a life – Be a mentor.

Photos by Maurice Meredith

Several national and local leaders participated in the recent launch of the St. Louis CARES Mentoring movement.

Johnny Furr, Jr. and License Collector Michael McMillan Belma Givens and Judge Mablean Ephriam

Rev. Al Sharpton

Dr. Julianne Malveaux, president, Bennett College for Women, and the St. Louis American’s Donald M. Suggs Johnny Furr, Jr.

Leslie Johnson gave an emotional performance at the event.

Minga Furr with Rev. Al Sharpton and Johnny Furr, Jr.

Judge Jimmie Edwards and National CARES Mentoring Movement founder Susan Taylor

Johnny Furr, Jr. chats with John Jacob, former executive vice president, Anheuser Busch.

Minga, Stacy, Jasmine and Johnny Furr, Jr.

Denise Thimes performed at the event.

FROMBUSINESSLEADER TO ‘BRIDGEBUILDER’

Furr’s love for community continues with St. Louis Cares

By Kenya Vaughn Of The St.Louis American

As many would attest that afternoon, Johnny Furr Jr. was true to form when he recently was recognized for his contributions to the community and 30-plus year career with Anheuser-Busch.

He could have easily said a few words and then sat alongside the Rev. Michael Jones and several other mentors to listen to the chorus of thank yous and congratulations coming from the sanctuary at his home church, Friendly Temple.

Instead, he used the event as a launching pad for the next chapter of his life’s work as a community advocate.

“It takes bravery to do the work that Johnny was doing in corporate America,” said Susan L. Taylor, editor emeritus of Essence Magazine and

John Shivers, Shirley Stennis,Brian Leonard,Steve Cousins and Richard Gray, president of the St.Louis Gateway Classic Sports Foundation, visit after Cousins’ reception of the Gateway Classic’s 2011 African American Outstanding Citizens Award.

“It takes bravery to do the work that Johnny was doing in corporate America.”

– Susan L.Taylor,on Johnny Furr Jr.

founder of the National Cares Mentoring Movement.

“And today could have been all about you, Johnny – but that’s not you. What you have done is turn it around and make it about the children.”

The event was part “This is Your Life,” part kick-off celebration. Dr. Julianne Malveaux, Judge

See FURR, B6

Steven Cousins receives Outstanding Citizens Award

American staff

Steven Cousins, an Armstrong Teasdale partner, received the St. Louis Gateway Classic Sports Foundation 2011 African American Outstanding Citizens Award on March 19. Cousins was recently reappointed as general counsel and an executive committee member of the Regional Commerce and Growth Association. The purpose of the Outstanding Citizens Award is to recognize individuals in the greater metropolitan St. Louis area who have made significant contributions to the community and/or their respective areas of work.

In its recognition of Cousins, the St. Louis Gateway Classic Sports Foundation noted his

The Gateway Classic Sports Foundation noted Cousins’ national reputation in the legal areas of bankruptcy, reorganization and restructuring.

national reputation in the legal areas of bankruptcy, reorganization and restructuring. Cousins heads Armstrong Teasdale’s Financial Services practice group and is a member of the firm’s executive committee. He is an active community leader. In addition to his work in the bankruptcy area,

Cousins was cited for counseling the City of St. Louis in airport expansion litigation and in connection with the issuance of more than $1 billion in bonds.

He also represented former HUD Secretary Alphonso Jackson, who was the subject of a three-year investigation by the U.S. Justice Department that was closed last year without the filing of charges.

Cousins has been listed for more than 15 years in TheBest Lawyers in America for his work in bankruptcy and creditor-debtor rights law. He received his J.D. from the University of Pennsylvania Law School in 1980 and B.A. from Yale University in 1977.

Fighting back the attack on the middle class

By U.S.Rep.Wm.Lacy Clay For The St.Louis American

As someone who

who they represent and how far they are willing to go

Please don’t believe the nonsense that this is just about reducing deficits or paying off the debt.

to trample on the middle-class families who actually do the work in this country.

This is a historic moment in the history of organized labor because much more than just union membership is on the line. This fight is about stopping a blatant, offensive attack on the American middle class.

All across this country – in Wisconsin, in Indiana, in Ohio, and right here in Missouri –

extreme, anti-worker GOPpoliticians, and the predatory special interests who back them, are attempting to break the back of organized labor.

And please don’t believe the nonsense that this is just about reducing deficits or paying off the debt. We all know that union members are more than willing to do their part to make tough sacrifices to help this economy become more efficient, help state and local governments reduce wasteful spending, and help tighten our belts during tough economic times. But that’s not what this is about.

PEOPLEON THE MOVE

Guan Hollins has been named chief operating officer at Paraquad, the largest nonprofit organization in the St. Louis area providing services to people with all types of disabilities. Previously Hollins was director of Paraquad’s College for Living, Employment Services and Work Incentives Planning & Assistance (WIPA).Hollins also serves as director of WIPAfor the southern region of Missouri.

Terran L. Dampier has joined Edward Jones Company in its Market Analysis division. Dampier will be receiving her MAin management from Fontbonne University in December 2010 and has been accepted in the University of Phoenix Doctoral Degree Program beginning January 2011. She is a North County native, graduate of McCluer High School and the youngest child of Tyrone and Denise Wilson.

BUSINESS

BRIEFS

Money Wise Workshop on Saturday at Afroworld

The St. Louis American will present Money Wise Workshop on Saturday, April 2 at Afroworld, 7276 Natural Bridge Rd. in Normandy. From 10 a.m.-12 p.m., EdwardJones will present two workshops, “Investments Made Simple” and “Unique Career Opportunities” (EdwardJones recruiter on site). From 2-4 p.m., Midwest BankCentre will present two workshops for two age groups. It will present “Understanding Credit & Things You Should Know About Borrowing Money” for adults and young adults, 13 years and up. And it will present “How to become a Smart Saver” for children ages 8 to 12 years. Parents or guardians are invited to attend the adult workshop and must remain onsite with children.

The event will feature ticket giveaways and free refreshments.

Enterprise gives $25M to Washington University forscholarships

Jack C. Taylor, founder of Enterprise Holdings, has given Washington University $25 million for undergraduate scholarships on behalf of the company.

The gift will be added to the existing endowed scholarship fund that was established in 2001 by Enterprise Holdings, the parent company of Enterprise Rent-A-Car, National Car Rental and Alamo Rent ACar.

Enterprise Holdings Scholars are selected on the basis of academic merit, leadership skills, character and commitment to community service, and all received financial assistance that made it possible for them to enroll at the university.

Each year, approximately half of the Enterprise Holdings scholarships are awarded to students based on the criteria established for the John B. Ervin Scholars Program, which seeks to expand the quality and diversity of the student body. Approximately 10 percent of the scholarships are reserved for St. Louis-area high school graduates and community college transfer students.

“The university is committed to enrolling promising students from all economic, ethnic and social backgrounds to strengthen the educational environment for all, and achievement in this area will set Washington University apart from other research universities,” said Chancellor Mark S. Wrighton.

Guan Hollins

Terran L. Dampier

Photo by Maurice Meredith

Johnny Furr Jr.

What savings alternatives are available?

As an investor, it’s important to have a portion of your holdings in savings. Opinions differ, but most financial advisors agree that adequate savings should form the basis of any sound investment strategy. There are a number of savings alternatives that will help you accumulate adequate savings and earn a reasonable rate of return.

Certificates of Deposit

Certificates of deposit are really just short-term loans to a bank, credit union, or savings and loan. They offer a moderate rate of return and more safety because they are insuredby the FDIC for up to $250,000 per depositor, per institution in interest and principal.

Asset Management Accounts

These accounts are

By Charles Ross PERSONAL FINANCE

Charles Ross

bonds were mentioned, people thought of U.S. savings bonds. Series EE savings bonds are sold in par values that range from $50 to $10,000 if purchased in paper form or from $50 to $5,000 if purchased electronically. Tax on the interest is deferred until

where EE bonds are currently sold or electronically. They are available in $50, $75, $100, $200, $500, $1,000,and $5,000 denominations. You can purchase up to $5,000 per Social Security number per year.

Money Market Funds

In a money market fund, your investment is pooled with that of other investors. The resulting fund is invested in a diverse portfolio of short-term debt securities. Money market funds offer a high level of safety and moderate income. Money market funds are neither insured nor guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any

CLAY

Continued from B1

This is not about conservative versus progressive, or whether the government should do more or less. This is about playing raw politics to destroy the ability of working people to organize and defend what really matters to you and your family.

This is about the moneyed special interests who have always gotten rich off of the hard work of others, who have bought and paid for a number of elected officials in different states.

They are willing to sacrifice your family’s eco-

government agency. Althoughmoney market funds seek to preserve the value of your investment at $1.00 per share, it is possible to lose money by investing in money market funds. Mutual funds are sold only by prospectus. Please consider the investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses carefully before investing. The prospectus, which contains this and other information about the investment company, can be obtained from your financial professional. Be sure to read the prospectus carefully before deciding whether to invest.

Interest-Bearing Checking Accounts

These accounts combine the interest-earning capability of a savings account with the check-writing convenience of a checking account. They are offered through many banks, savings and loans, and credit unions. Some charge a fee if you

Box 870928; Stone Mountain, Georgia 30087; or email to charles@ charlesross.com.

nomic future to line the pockets of their wealthy donors, many of whom engaged in the reckless and irresponsible financial practices that destroyed millions of jobs and pushed more than three million American families into foreclosure.

They think this is their moment to strike a fatal blow to the labor movement.

Stripping collective bargaining rights from public employees and bringing back the right to work for less legislation is not about helping the economy. It’s not about creating jobs or reducing the deficit. It’s about pure politics.

So I want to thank the extreme, anti-worker leadership of the Tea Party Republicans for taking this issue on. As a result of their efforts, the American people are solidly standing with us, and not with them. Working people in Missouri and across this country are waking up to a very clear picture of who is on their side … and who isn’t.

I can assure you that as the battle heats up, I will be on the front lines of this fight, standing shoulder-toshoulder with you. We will once again defeat the right to work for less.We will protect the collective bargaining rights of public employees. And we will defend the American middle class that organized labor helped to create.

“We made history here, winning five games, going to the Final Four, and as I said out there on the floor, we’re not done yet.”

– VCU head coach

Shaka Smart

Mizzou will be all right

St. Louis American Boys Fab Five

By Earl Austin Jr.

members of the 2011 St. Louis American “Fab Five” All-Star Basketball Team represent one of the most talented groups that we have ever put together. Leading the way is McDonald’s All-American Bradley Beal of Chaminade and fellow superstar performer B.J. Young of McCluer North. Both are national Top 20 players.

Joining the team this year is the robust duo of Dantiel Daniels of Holt, Roosevelt Jones of O’Fallon, along with the stringy Cameron Biedscheid of Cardinal Ritter, who is the best junior in the state of Missouri. This is an awesome collection of talent. They brought the St. Louis area some great national notoriety during the summer and the season, and it continued all the way

Earl Austin Jr.

through a great 2010-2011 season. Here are the members of the St. Louis American “Fab Five” Boys All-Star First Team.

Bradley Beal (Chaminade): The 2011 St. Louis American Player of the Year, the 6’4” Beal concluded a spectacular career with a senior campaign for the ages. Beal averaged 32.4 points a game to lead the St. Louis area in scoring. He also hit 87 3-

BASKETBALL NOTEBOOK

By Earl Austin Jr.

Cuonzo Martin was named the MVC Coach of the Year for leading MSU to their first ever Valley regular-season championship.

to

Martin

and

the

In 2010, Martin guided MSU to a 24-12 record and the championship of the CollegeInsiders.com Tournament. Congratulations to Cuonzo on his new position as he moves up into the high major ranks of collegiate basketball. After the shenanigans of former head coach Bruce Pearl, Martin brings high character and integrity to a basketball program that is in need of some after Pearl’s embarrassing conduct. Also, he happens to be one heck of a basketball

pointers, averaged 5.7 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 2.7 steals and two blocks a game to lead the Red Devils to a 27-1 record and a national ranking. Beal was also selected to play in the McDonald’s All-American Game on March 30 in Chicago. The University of Floridabound guard finished his career with 2,634 points. He is on the short list of the greatest players ever produced in the St. Louis

Austin Jr.’s video premieres April 10

American staff

The video features rare footage from former PHL stars from as far back as the 1940s up until the present.

Earl Austin Jr.’s groundbreaking video on the history of basketball in the Public High League will be making its television debut on STLTV. “The PHLin the STL: The Public High League, ASt. Louis Basketball Legacy” will premiere on Sunday, April 10 at 5:30 p.m. on Charter Digital (Ch. 992), AT&TU-Verse (Ch. 99) and STLTV.net. This special presentation will feature eight decades of PHLbasketball history from the Beaumont dynasty of the 1940’s to the Vashon dynasty of the early 2000’s and everything in between from former greats such as Bob Ferry, Jo Jo White, David Thirdkill, Anthony Bonner and Jimmy McKinney.

The video features rare footage from former PHLstars from as far back as the 1940s up until the present, as well as hundreds of photos with music from the eras to accompany each decade. St. Louis American sports editor Earl Austin Jr. narrates this 97-minute special presentation, which is produced by Travis Harder of T.J. Redbird Production.

If you wish to own your own copy of the book or DVD version of “The PHLin

Missouri State Head Coach Cuonzo Martin cuts down the net after the Bears won the regular season Missouri Valley Conference title.

Earl

With Earl Austin Jr.

Dantiel Daniels

Roosevelt Jones

Cameron Biedscheid

Bradley Beal

B.J.Young

CLAIB’S CALL

By Mike Claiborne

Anderson and Mizzou will be all right

Last week when Mike Anderson decided to pull up stakes and head to Arkansas, Missouri fans got a taste of what college sports and coaching is all about. The last time a Missouri coach in football or basketball left for another college job on his own was in 1957 when Frank Broyles left to go coach at where else? Arkansas.

It is a bitter pill to swallow when a coach you like leaves to go elsewhere, and for Mizzou fans it was hard to take. These decisions are never easy. Emotions run high, tempers get short and feelings are hurt. With that said, when it is the school you always wanted to coach at, how can you say no? This is part of the business of college sports. The contracts are worthless, the coaches have little credibility, and tomorrow Mizzou will raid another coach from some school and all will be good for them. For those who thought Anderson should be loyal to his contract and stay, think again. Coaches are always looking to improve their situation. They overrecruit players, they break rules to get players and they always have their agent looking for a better job. For Anderson, going back to a place where he and thenHead Coach Nolan Richardson won a national championship at Arkansas was what he wanted. They have great facilities, an impressive incoming class of players and tradition as they have been there, done that. Also, they are playing in a watered-down Western Conference of the SEC.

Mizzou and he was a lifer. It is a hard balancing act to maintain, as he joins countless other coaches who have fallen off the wire trying to comfort players and fans before they bolt.

This is part of the business of college sports.The contracts are worthless, the coaches have little credibility, and tomorrow Mizzou will raid another coach.

Mike Anderson and Missouri will be all right. The Tigers have a formidable group coming back and, with an addition here and there, they could be interesting no matter who the coach is. As for Mizzou fans, welcome the reality that the program is not of the untouchable status. As for the administration, they did what they had to do. To annually increase a coach’s salary because he had a good run can be costly, especially when they do not win the big one or in this case don’t have any business in the tournament in the first place. The Anderson era is now behind us. It was a good one, as he graduated kids, kept them off the police blotter and for the most part brought some respectability back to a program that was in dire need. He was the first AfricanAmerican head coach in the history of the university, and he did not disappoint until he moved on.

Fans should understand that this should not be about the coach but the program. Your coach will leave some day, because they were either too good for the job or not good enough.

Cuonzo Moving On

If Anderson made one mistake, he went too far with respect to wanting to retire at

out on skill and intelligence.

he did not disappoint until he moved on to Arkansas.

After three years at Missouri State, Cuonzo Martin is moving on to the University of Tennessee to become their head coach. While I am a big

fan of coach Martin on and off the court, he will have his work cut out for him. He inherits a program that is in near shambles with respect to talent. The program is being investigated by the NCAAfor some prior shenanigans and could get slapped a bit. For some reason, lying is a strong suit for UTlately and it goes well beyond sports. Yet they have good facilities, strong support and a top-notch

conference to play in. Coach Martin will be second fiddle to the women’s program, led by Hall of Famer Pat Summit.

Then there are the haters. The son of former coach Bruce Pearl, Steven Pearl, laughed on his Twitter account about the hiring of coach Martin, saying, “All I can do is laugh and say good luck sir” on the hiring of Martin. This coming from a coach’s son who was so bad he could barely play for his father. When it came to recruiting Steven, the coach missed

HOOPS

Continued from B3

coach who knows how to compete and how to win.

STL in NCAA

Another special tip of the cap goes out to our STL-area players for their performances in the NCAATournament. I talked about their exploits in my column last week, but these kids have followed up with some more prime-time performances last weekend.

Former St. Charles High standout Josh Harrellson has been huge in helping Kentucky to this weekend’s Final Four. The 6’10” Harrellson averaged 15 points and nine rebounds in UK’s four tournament victories.

Former Hazelwood Central

Coach Martin has been in tougher situations, starting with playing his way through the challenges of East St. Louis. He parlayed that into a stellar career and degree from Purdue. Ahealth setback with cancer would not keep Cuonzo down, as he served as an assistant at his alma mater before landing a job as head coach at Missouri State. Since his tour of duty there, Martin took a team that had underachieved to winning the conference championship in his third year.

standout Alex Tyus closed out his career at Florida in a big way with two big performances in the Southeast Regional. Tyus had 19 points and 17 rebounds in the semifinals victory over Brigham Young, then followed up with 14 points and 10 rebounds in the Gators’ overtime loss to Butler in the regional finals.

Jesse Perry (Gateway Tech) of Arizona had 14 points and seven rebounds against UConn in the finals of the West Regional in Anaheim.

Former Incarnate Word girls standout Felicia Chester averaged 13 points a game in the NCAATournament in leading DePaul to the Sweet 16 of the women’s tournament.

JJ to SIUE

Former Miller Career Academy standout Jerome Jones gave a verbal commit-

Martin will bring something to Tennessee that could be interesting. Martin can recruit, and to take his show to a state that seldom gets athletes to play there should make the local coaches – at St. Louis U, the Valley, maybe Missouri –think about how to counter it. I am excited about coach Martin moving on to this venture. He is battle-hardened, and he will need it as this will be an uphill challenge. I hope the natives in Tennessee give him time.

ment to Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville over the weekend. The 6’5” Jones just completed an excellent sophomore year at Indian Hills Junior College in Ottumwa, IA. Jones averaged 13 points and seven rebounds a game in leading Indian Hills to a 23-7 record. After a stellar career at Career Academy, Jones spent his freshman year at Missouri State University. Mid-majors missing big men What is most amazing about Butler and VCU advancing to the Final Four as mid-major programs is that both programs lost their best player from last year to the NBA. Forward Gordon Hayward of Butler and center Larry Sanders of VCU both left school a year early to become NBAlottery picks. Despite the loss of such impact players, these two schools have made it back to the Final Four. That’s a huge statement, folks.

Wizards in the Lou

The internationally famous Harlem Wizards will be in town to this weekend to play a game against the United All-Stars on Saturday evening at Riverview Gardens High (1218 Shepley). The Wizards will be entertaining folks with their dazzling array of basketball tricks and showmanship on United Community Family Night. The event is presented by the United in the Name of Jesus Ministries and Community Partners. Tickets are on sale for $8 in advance and $10 at the door. You can purchase tickets at the Family Christian Bookstores (10807 West Florissant).

Mike Claiborne

Mike Anderson was the first AfricanAmerican head coach in the history of Mizzou,and

Photo by Bill Greenblatt/UPI

FAB FIVE

Continued from B3

area. During the summer, Beal was the MVPof the World 17U Championships in Germany.

Cameron Biedscheid

(Cardinal Ritter): The smooth 6’7” junior followed up on an excellent sophomore year by exploding as one of the state’s top scorers in 2011. Abig guard who can do it all offensively, Biedscheid averaged 29.7 points and 7.9 rebounds to lead the Lions to a 23-6 record and a berth in the Class 3 state quarterfinals.

Biedscheid also averaged 2.3 assists, 2.4 steals and 2.4 blocks per game. He has great shooting range from anywhere on the court, plus he attacks the rim with vengeance.

Biedscheid gave an early commitment to Notre Dame before the beginning of his junior year at Ritter.

Dantiel Daniels (Holt): The 6’6” 220-pound senior has been a force in the metro area since his freshman year. The powerful lefty is a powerhouse performer in the low post with his excellent post moves and power dunks around the rim. As a senior, Daniels averaged 21.4 points, 11.3 rebounds and 3.9 blocks per game in leading the Indians to a 20-7 record and the championship of the Gateway Athletic Conference. Daniels was able to accomplish all of that despite seeing double and triple teams all season. Daniels will begin his col-

legiate career at Southern Illinois University next season.

Roosevelt Jones (O’Fallon): The versatile 6’5” 215-pound Jones did it all for the Panthers from playing point guard to down low in the post at center and everywhere in between. As a senior, Jones averaged 17.2 points, 10.4 rebounds, 4.5 assists and 2.8 rebounds a game in leading the Panthers to a 20-7 record and the cochampionship of the powerful Southwestern Conference. Jones also had the dunk of the year in the Panthers’72-70 loss to East St. Louis in the IHSAClass 4Aregional semifinals at Belleville West. He will begin his collegiate career at Butler University in the fall.

B.J. Young (McCluer North): The 6’3” senior put together a spectacular season in leading the Stars to the Missouri Class 5 state championship. Young averaged 28.6 points, 4.3 assists and 4.2 rebounds in leading the Stars to a 29-4 record. He was at his best when the game was on the line. He could just take games over in the second half with his relentless will to score.

Young scored 27 points in the second half against Chaminade in North’s upset victory in the state quarterfinals. He scored 19 points in the final six minutes and 40 seconds of the Stars’62-59 victory over Lee’s Summit North in the state semifinals. Such second-half outbursts were commonplace for Young, who has signed with the University of Arkansas.

First Team

Bradley Beal 6’4”

Chaminade (Sr.)

Cameron Biedscheid 6’7”

Cardinal Ritter (Jr.)

Dantiel Daniels 6’6” Holt (Sr.)

Roosevelt Jones 6’5” O’Fallon (Sr.)

B.J. Young 6’3” McCluer North (Sr.)

Second Team

Trae Anderson 6’3” Hazelwood Central (Sr.)

Seth Jackson 6’4” CBC (Sr.)

Keante Minor 6’2” East St. Louis (Sr.)

Darion Rackley 6’2” CBC (Sr.)

Christian Thomas 6’5” Clayton (Sr.)

Third Team

Shaquille Boga 6’0” McCluer (Sr.)

JavierDuren 6’4” Oakville (Sr.)

Malcolm Hill 6’5”

Belleville East (Soph.)

Paul McRoberts 6’4” Soldan (Jr.)

Travon Williams 6’3” University City (Jr.)

Fourth Team

Jordon Granger 6’8” McCluer North (Jr.)

Pete Sanders 5’11” Soldan (Jr.)

Rayshawn Simmons 6’4”

Webster Groves (Jr.)

Darris Smith 5’11”

Hazelwood West (Sr.)

Jordan Wilson 6’2”

Hazelwood Central (Sr.)

Fifth Team

Dylan Chatman 6’1”

Belleville West (Sr.)

Curtis Churchman 5’7”

Hazelwood Central (Sr.)

Deshawn Munson 6’3”

East St. Louis (Soph)

Martavian Payne 6’1”

Imagine Prep (Soph)

Ahmad Smith 6’2” Clayton (Sr.)

Post Season Awards

Player of the Year:

Bradley Beal (Chaminade)

Coach of the Year:

Randy Reed (McCluer North)

Game of the Year:

Chaminade-WebsterGroves (Class 5, District 3 title game)

Freshmen of the Year: Patrick Triplett (Bayless), Rashard Lindsey (MICDS)

Jaylen Fulton

Jaylen Fulton is No.3,second from left in the front row.

FURR

Continued from B1

Mableen Ephriam, the Rev. Al Sharpton and Taylor were among the national personalities on hand, along with hundreds of family, friends, church members, politicians and community leaders.

Guests spoke – and sang –his praises for a job well done, while simultaneously ushering Furr and his wife, Minga Furr, into a new chapter with the launch of St. Louis Cares, the local leg of a national mentoring campaign started by Taylor.

“Johnny Furr has never been like that –he’s never been one that you had to remind.”

– the Rev. Al Sharpton

“Today is more than a celebration of a career –it is a commencement,” said John E. Jacob, former executive vice president and board member of Anheuser-Bush and president emeritus of the National Urban League.

“Johnny knows that it’s not enough for him to have been successful, unless he reaches back and helps others to succeed too. Johnny Furr is a bridge builder. He is building a bridge for the young people in this community so that they can grow up and be the next Johnny Furr. And he is challenging us to join this battle so that we all can make a difference.”

Furr’s decision to embark on St. Louis Cares – making St. Louis one of 57 cities participating in the National Cares Mentoring Movement – represents a full circle of his association with the organization.

National Cares has been endorsed by Oprah Winfrey, Spike Lee and Harry Belafonte, but the organization began with Furr writing the first check back in 2006 when he was vice president of com-

munity affairs and consumer outreach for Anheuser-Busch and Taylor was editorial director of Essence Magazine

“There would not be National Cares – which began as Essence cares –without Johnny,” Taylor said.

‘Son of St.Louis’

“I want to thank God for the grace and favor that he’s shown this poor boy from North St. Louis,” Furr said.

“Reflecting on the journey from the Ville neighborhood to this sanctuary, it’s been a journey that I’m very thankful and blessed that I’ve been able to travel.”

His remarks were more a humbly submitted list that paid homage than a formal speech. He thanked the Ville neighborhood, MathewsDickey Boys and Girls Club, coaches, coworkers, mentors, his alma maters Sumner High School and Saint Louis University, and many more.

“I’ve got a lot of thanking to do,” Furr said. “I am a son of St. Louis, and I truly say that caring adults and com-

munity organizations and mentors have made a major influence in my life – and in many ways saved my life.”

In true Furr fashion, he deflected the spotlight from himself. As he stepped away from the sanctuary, he challenged the community.

“In so many ways, this moment really isn’t about me. It is a testament to God’s grace and favor,” Furr said.

“It is a reminder of how loving family, caring adults and institutions, and the support of friends and mentors can make a real difference in a person’s life. I pledge I will continue to support our young people. My humble request to you is that we all recommit ourselves to giving our children a chance to be everything that God has intended them to be.”

No ‘Negro amnesia’

“Many blacks get in the corporate corridors and get automatic Negro amnesia – it seems to come with the atmosphere that the higher the elevator takes them the less they remember,” said the Rev. Al

Sharpton.

“But thank God Johnny Furr has never been like that –he’s never been one that you had to remind. Johnny Furr

fought in those corridors for us. He fought for blacks in the company. He fought to make sure his community – not only in St. Louis, but even around the country – shared from some of the revenue we generate in the corporate world. And he was grounded.”

Photo by Maurice Meredith

George Fraser, Michael Roberts, Rev.Michael Jones of Friendly Temple Missionary Baptist Church,Johnny Furr,Jr.and Dr. Henry Givens at the launch of the St.Louis CARES Mentoring Movement.

Harbach, Hudson and Harriet

Soprano performs world premiere of new song cycle about Harriet Scott

By Chris King Of The St.

Louis American

The composer Barbara Harbach premiered her Freedom Suite for String Quintet at the University of MissouriSt. Louis’ 2011 celebration of the Martin Luther King Jr. national holiday. It is a musical meditation on Harriet and Dred Scott and their family that makes liberal use of the African-American spiritual.

Now she will offer a world premiere of a song suite, Harriet’s Story, that covers the same historical material at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 7 at Unity

Evangelical Lutheran Church, 8454

Glen Echo Dr., in Bel-Nor. Part of a womens’ studies conference at UMSL, the concert is free and open to the public.

One might expect the vocal piece Harbach has written for Marlissa Hudson to sing from Harriet Scott’s perspective also would borrow from spirituals. But no.

Harriet’s Story came straight from my soul,” Harbach told The American “I read about the Scotts, and it just came from me.”

Harbach is a widely accomplished, world-traveling composer, musician,

publisher and educator. For melodies to come “from” her could mean it came from many different places.

“I consider Harriet’s Story to be a dramatic song cycle with large, sweeping gestures in the irst two movements,” Harbach said.

“The third movement has an edginess to it. I still use a lot of melodies, it’s still my own musical language, but it’s edgier, more intense-sounding than my other works.”

That is understandable, given that it is a slave’s story. We know some facts about Harriet Scott, when so many of her contemporaries left little historical

trace, because of the legal battle she and her husband, Dred Scott, waged to claim their freedom after one of their owners had taken them into free territory.

An all-white St. Louis jury granted the Scotts their freedom in 1850, but this verdict was overturned by the Missouri Supreme Court in 1852, whose opinion was upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court in an 1857 ruling so inlammatory that it helped to ignite the Civil War.

None of this well-known legal history is reworked in Harbach’s libretto to Harriet’s Story. The irst movement,

“Frontier Slave,” describes the hard traveling of a slave trailing masters from state to state with “no rights, no rights.” The second movement, “No Reason to Learn,” goes to the heart of Harriet’s ight for freedom – so her two daughters would have a better life.

Sweetest Eliza and dearest Lizzie, My girls will read and write. A hope for the future, A future of freedom.

The third movement, “Sister Harriet,” makes a lateral move to a different woman named Harriet, the abolitionist Harriet Tubman, and quotes her. These historic voices will be delivered by Marlissa Hudson, a soprano from St. Louis now working in Washington, D.C. who recently released her irst CD, Libera. “She’s such professional,” Harbach said of Hudson. Hudson will be joined in performance by Alla Voskoboynikova on piano and David Gillham on violin. “The violin is such a wonderful vehicle,” Harbach said. “It’s almost another voice. It can communicate sad-

See SCOTT, C4

and CeCe

Pinetop

March 21, 2011 – July 7, 1913

By Terry Perkins

For The St. Louis American

The blues lost another legend on Monday, March 21, 2011 with the passing of Joe Willie “Pinetop” Perkins at the age of 97 in Austin, Texas. Born near Belzoni, Mississippi on July 7, 1913, Perkins didn’t achieve widespread recognition as a musician until his mid-50s, when he replaced the great Otis Spann as the pianist in the band of blues great Muddy Waters.

During his twenties, Perkins spent several years living and playing in

St. Louis, before returning South to eventually work with famed bluesmen Robert Nighthawk and Sonny Boy Williamson in Helena, Arkansas in the 1940s – appearing with Nighthawk on regular broadcasts on radio station KFFA, then playing with Williamson on the “King Biscuit Time” broadcasts. Perkins returned to the St. Louis area once again in the 1950s, spending several years based in East St. Louis and also Cairo, Illinois, before moving to Chicago in 1958 and eventually working with slide guitarist Earl Hooker for several years, then

Gospel duo returns to fans with first tour in 15 years

By Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American

When gospel duo BeBe and CeCe Winans broke through urban adult contemporary radio airwaves with their album Heaven nearly 25 years ago, something not even they could have imagined happened. The title song shot to number one and the album made its way into Billboard’s Top 10 R&B albums.

The last time an inspirational record had done so was when Aretha Franklin returned to her gospel roots back in 1972.

“It was definitely not a planned situation,” BeBe said, referring to how that song crumbled the barriers between gospel and mainstream music. “We didn’t chart the course that way; it just happened. It was wonderful to see what happens if you don’t place limitations on yourself – or God.”

The difference between Franklin’s chart success and BeBe and CeCe’s was that their success was not a double-back, but a cross-over. And it changed the landscape of spiritual music with respect to being embraced by the mainstream.

BeBe and CeCe are the younger siblings of The Winans – a beloved gospel singing group that had been on the scene several years before BeBe and CeCe started singing with Jim and Tammy Faye Baker’s PTL singers back in the 1980s.

But thanks to the instant connection with an entirely new

joining Waters’ band from 1960 to 1980. Perkins gained the nickname of “Pinetop” thanks to his memorable rendition of the song, “Pinetop’s Boogie Woogie,” originally written

and recorded by Clarence “Pinetop” Smith in the 1920s. And thanks to his growing fame as a member of Water’s band – and his contributions to classic

See WINANS,

BeBe

Winans will play the Fox Theatre on Sunday with Mary Mary on their irst tour in 15 years.

Blues legend Joe Willie “Pinetop” Perkins will be buried Saturday April 2 in Clarksdale, Mississippi.

Barbara Harbach

Marlissa Hudson Harriet Scott

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

Sat., Apr. 2, 8 p.m., Anthony David, Old Rock House, 700 S. 7th St.

Sat., Apr. 2, 8 p.m. (7 p.m. doors) The Dramatics live in concert, The Starlight Room (inside Lights on Broadway), 8350 N. Broadway. For more information, call (314) 3854545.

Sat., Apr. 2, 8 p.m., Blues legend Theodis Ealy, The Broadway. Call 314-972-6100 for VIPor Table Reservations!

Sun., Apr. 3, 7:30 p.m., Fox Concerts presents the Still

Something Big tour starring BeBe & CeCe Winans and Mary Mary, The Fox Theatre. For more information, call (314)534-1111 or visit www.metrotix.com

Sun., Apr. 10, 7 p.m. The I Am Still Music tour starring Lil’Wayne with special guests, Nicki Minaj, Rick Ross and Travis Barker, The Scottrade Center. For more information, visit www.livenation.com.

May 1, 2 p.m., Quiet Your World Piano Concert featuring composers and artists from Nashville and Seatlle as heard on ww.solopianoradio.com, 8920 Eden Avenue, Affton,

CALENDAR

MO 63123. For more information www.edenucc.org or [314]631-8930.

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

local gigs

Sat., Apr. 2, 7:30 p.m., New Music Circle presents noted St. Louis pianist Peter Henderson, Christ Church Cathedral, 1210 Locust St. Sat., Apr. 9, 3 p.m., The Sisters Theonis and Luevenia presents Trios Tres Bien and company, Scruggs Memorial CME Church, 3680 Cook Ave. Kut-Nup Productions is seeking hip hop dancers immediately for the upcoming Lip Sync Competition in May at the Cotton Club. Please contact Sherre Ward 314-3131614 or Eric Ward 314-7755679.

special events

Sat., Apr. 2, St. Louis Symphony INUnison Chorus Auditions, Powell Symphony

Hall, 718 North Grand. To schedule an appointment, call (314) 286-4108.

Thurs., Apr. 7, Be The Difference: ABenefit for Voices for Children featuring authorand speaker Wes Moore, Windows on Washington. For more information, call (314) 552-2454 or visit www.voices-stl.org

Sat., Apr. 9, 7 a.m., New Life Christian School Spring Extravaganza, 11570 Mark Twain Lane. For more information, call (314) 291-4181.

Sat., Apr. 9, 8 p.m., The Aries Zodiac Birthday Bash, Starlight Room, 8350 N. Broadway.

Sat., Apr. 9, 7:15 p.m. (6:30 p.m. doors), Woman’s Place Springtime Trivia Night, proceeds will benefit Woman’s Place, a safe and welcoming drop-in center for adult women, especially women who have experienced relationship violence. St. Gerard Majella Parish Center, Ballas & Dougherty Ferry Road. For tickets and information call Ruth at (314)966-6084.

Sun., Apr. 10, J.R.L.W. Productions presents a Special All-StarExplosion Body Blast 2011, Blackmon’s Plaza, 127 Collinsville Ave, East St. Louis, IL. For more

information, call (314) 8689564.

Apr. 17, 12 noon, Cardinal RitterPrep Open House, 701 N. Spring, St. Louis, MO 63108. Summer Academy and Athletic Camps begin June 6th, 2011 www.cardinalritterprep.org for more info.

Fri., Apr. 29 – May 1, MurderMystery Train Trip from St. Louis To Kansas City. For more information call (314) 219-4188 or visit kcmysteryweekend.eventbrite.c om.

Through May 15, Bob the Builder– Project: Build It will be on site at The Magic House, 516 S. Kirkwood Road, one mile north of Highway 44 in historic downtown Kirkwood. For more information, please call (314) 822-8900 or visit The Magic House online at www.magichouse.org

comedy

Fri., Apr. 1, Mike Epps with special guest Sheryl Underwood, Chaifetz Arena. Visit www.ticketmaster.com

May 7, 7 p.m. & 9 p.m., Laugh With Me Ma Comedy Weekend starring Jovan Bibbs, Marcus Combs, Matt Collins and more, Gateway Center, One Gateway Drive in Collinsville, IL. Call (618) 345-8998.

literary

Sat., Mar. 26, 2 p.m.m Free Youth Poetry Workshop and Open Mic opportunity. Bridgeton Trails Branch Library, 3455 McKelvey Rd. Bridgeton, MO 63044

Sat., Apr. 16, 8 p.m., HEARding Cats Collective presents These Cats Can Speak, a multimedia event featuring several of St. Louis’ finest poets, accompanied by improvised music. The evening will feature readings by Brett Underwood, Anna Lum, K. Curtis Lyle, and Stef Russell. Floating Laboratories, 4528 Ohio. For more info, visit www.heardingcatscollective.org.

Sun., Apr. 10, The St. Louis Poetry Center will present the benefit reading “Do Thy Will” featuring Shakespeare’s sonnets read by fourteen members of the community, Blueberry Hill’s Duck Room, 6504 Delmar Blvd. For more information, call (314) 9730616 or visit www.stlouis poetrycenter.org.

theatre

Thurs., Apr. 7- Fri., Apr. 8, Central Visual and Performing Arts High School presents The Secret in the Wings by Mary Zimmerman, Central Visual and Performing

Arts High School, 3125 S. Kingshighway. For more information, call (314) 771-2722.

Through Sun., Apr. 10, The Black Rep presents The Real McCoy, The Grandel Theatre, 3610 Grandel Square. For more information, call (314) 534-3807.

Apr. 28 – Apr. 30, Chicago’s legendary comedy theatre The Second City brings FAIR & UNBALANCED to St. Louis, Touhill Performing Arts Center Tickets are available now at the Touhill Performing Arts Center Ticket Office; online at www.touhill.org; or by phone at 314-516-4949.

Thurs., Mar. 31, 5:30 p.m., The Gallery at the Regional Arts Commission presents Reflections of a Creative Life: Hal Poth - ARetrospective, curated by Judy Weltman (exhibit runs through April 10), Regional Arts Commission, 6128 Delmar. April 8 – April 10, The GreaterSt. Louis Art Association presents the SemiAnnual Art Fairat Queeny Park, Greensfelder Recreation Center in Queeny Park, 550 Weidman Rd, Ballwin, Mo. Sat., Apr. 9, 7 p.m., Wall Ball 2011 featuring C’Babi Bayoc and more than 40 other artists. Proceeds to benefit Scosag. NEO (2801 Locust Avenue). For more information,

Gallery 210, Telecommunity Center at UMSL, 1 University Blvd. For more information, visit gallery210.umsl.edu or 314516-5976.

lectures

Mar. 31, 1 p.m., The Civil Rights Enforcement Agency (CREA) along with the Department of Housing and Urban Development will celebrate April as Fair Housing Month with their exciting informative annual program. The theme for this year is “Building Inclusive and SustainableCommunities Free from Discrimination. St. Louis City Hall Rotunda. Fri., Apr. 1 – Sat., Apr. 2, Parent and Student information Sessions for Education 4 All Summer Youth Development Program: Preparing Our Future Leaders July 5, 2011July 29, 2011, 9:00 AM until 3:00 PM Each day for students entering 6th-12th grade in the fall. Host site: St. Luke Memorial Baptist Church (3623 Finney). Parent & Student Information

Sessions_* *at St. Luke Memorial Bapatist Church either Friday, April 1, 2011 at 7:30 PM or Saturday, April 2, 2011 at 9:00 AM. Please contact Carletta Washington, Ed.S. at: 314-438-8440 for additional questions and/or sponsorship information.

Sat.,Apr. 9, 2:30 p.m. (5 p.m. lecture), Sabayet Inc presents a lecture by Bro Mfundishi Jhutyms Ka N Heru Salim and a Metu NeterWorkshop Sabayet Inc. 4000 Maffitt Ave. Call (314) 867-2393 or (618)334-9932.

Sat., Apr. 9, 10 a.m. , the Black Alumni Council of Washington University presents Addressing Health Disparities in the African American Community Moderator -Brenda Battle. Panelists - Dr. Will Ross, Dr. Denise Hooks-Anderson, Dr. Vetta Sanders-Thompson, Joseph Palm.Alumni House Living Room, 6510 Wallace Circle, To register, call 314935-5645 or e-mail at wubac@wustl.edu

Sat., Apr. 9, 10 am., Operational Unity: Coalition Against Community Violence neighborhood and workshop series, Indigo Hotel St Louis (Central West End), 4630 Lindell Boulevard, Saint Louis, MO 63108.

Tues., Apr. 12, 9 a.m., AARP DriverSafety Program class, Brentmoor Senior Living Community, University City, MO. For more information, call (314) 995-3811.

Sat., Apr. 16, 9:30 a.m., Free Jail/Prison Re-Entry and Visitation Workshop led by Chuck and Denita Robinson of Heart-to-Heart, Inc., Washington Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church, 3200 Washington Boulevard (corner of Compton Avenue). The event is free. Acontinental breakfast will be served. Call (314) 533-8763.

Tues., Apr. 19, 5 p.m., INC Yourself in 2011 seminars presented by Comptroller

Darlene Green of the City of St. Louis. INC Yourself in 2011: Doing Business with Airports and the Federal Government.” This seminar will be held at the new William J. Harrison Center located at 3140 Cass Ave.For more information, e-mail: incyourself2011@gmail.com or call 314-612-1462.

Wed., Apr. 20, St. Louis University School of Law, NOBLE, U.S. Probation Office - ED/MO, and the Black Law Student Association, will host an Offender Reentry Conference at St. Louis University - Busch Student Center.

Fri., Apr. 29, 7:30 a.m., The first-everDowntown Housing Summit, featuring guest speakers reporting on national and regional housing trends reflected in the just completed 2010 Census and the future of downtown living. For more information, visit www.downtownstl.org.

Wed., May 4, 6 p.m., We Are More Than You Think: Removing the stigma of mental illness and Promoting mental wellness in the African-American community, Missouri History Museum – in Forest Park (Corner of Lindell and DeBaliviere). For more information, call (314)482-5697 or email:jidleburg@gmail.com

Toastmasters International St. Louis presents Primary Conversations! Want to develop in Public Speaking? Visit Toastmasters Primary Conversations Club every 2nd and 4th Tuesday at 6pm...Please call 314-2259098 for more information.

health

Sat., Apr. 2, TowerGrove Park and Austism Speaks: Light-it-Up-Blue campaign, On April 2nd the global autism community celebrates the fourth annual United Nationssanctioned World Autism Awareness Day. In recognition

of this day, Tower Grove Park (along with other local landmarks, structures, and buildings) will participate in the Autism Speak’s Light-it-UpBlue campaign by illuminating the Ruins in blue.

This international campaign begins on April 1 (the first night of Autism Awareness Month) and April 2 (World Autism Awareness Day). The Ruins at Tower Grove Park (located off South Grand, south of 1-44, and is bounded by Grand, Arsenal, Kingshighway, and Magnolia).

Apr. 7, 6 p.m., St. Louis native and author Areva Martin (The Everyday Advocate: Standing Up for Your Autistic Child) will speak on “The Power of Advocacy: 5 Ways to Change Your Life,” Central Reform Congregation, 5020 Waterman Blvd. in St. Louis. Call 314-516-5917 or visit powerofadvocacy-autohome.eventbrite.com for more information.

Sat. Apr. 9, 1p.m. - 4 p.m. –Community Health & Resource Fair, Mt. Bethel M.B. Church, 1600 Belt Ave. St. Louis. Free health screenings including flaucoma & memory; pregnancy testing/ultrasounds; mammograms (pre-register) chair massages, entertainment, gam4es, weatherization demos. For more information, call 314-

The Dramatics at The Starlight Room (inside Lights on Broadway). For more information,see CONCERTS.

925-0750.

Sat. Apr. 9, 6:30 p.m. –Midnight, Blue Tie Gala to celebrate prostate cancer survivors, at St. Louis Gateway Classic Sports Foundation, 2012 Dr. Martin Luther King Drive, St. Louis. The event is sponsored by The Empowerment Network and Betty Jean Kerr People’s Health Centers. Tickets are $20 – sales support prostate cancer outreach efforts. For tickets, call 314-367-7848 ext. 1246.

Sun. Apr. 10, 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. – ATasteful Affair23, Chase Park Plaza Khorassan Ballroom, 212 N. Kingshighway, St. Louis, an annual fundraiser for Food Outreach. More than 40 restaurants and caterers are providing the tastings; live and silent auction items. Tickets are $50 in advance and $65 at the door. The VIPPreview Party from 12 p.m. is $123 (includes main event ticket). Food outreach provides nutritious meals for low-income persons living with HIV/AIDS or cancer. For more information call 314652-3663 x. 122 or visit www.foodoutreach.org.

Wed. Apr. 14, 6 p.m. – 7 p.m., Crisis Nursery Kid’s Banquet at Creve Coeur Government Center - honoring local volunteers from through-

out the region. For more information, call (314) 2925770 or visit www.crisisnurserykids.org.

Sat. Apr. 30, Wellness Jam

2011 at the St. Louis Gateway Classic Foundation, 2012 Dr. Martin Luther King Dr. –St. Louis. Free activities for all ages, including a children’s pavilion; free health screenings; fitness demonstration, step and line dancing; giveaways, raffles, and live performances. For more information, call 314-621-1994

Sunday, May 1, 2 p.m. –Heart & Soul 5K Race, at Creve CoeurPark. Event includes prizes, awards, health/ fitness stations; music and entertainment. Proceeds will benefit KaBOOM!, the national non-profit organization dedicated to saving play. Register at www.heartandsoulrun.com.

Wed. May 4, 6:00 – 8:30 p.m.

–“We Are More Than What You Think,” a free community forum about mental illness in the African American community at the Missouri History Museum. Continuing education credits from the Missouri Institute of Mental Health are available for $10. For more information, contact Bryan Evans-Mental Health America @ 314-773-1399 or Justin Idleburg at 314-482-5697jidlehelps@gmail.com.

Sat. May 7, 9:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. – “Behind the Mask” Lupus Educational Conference at Saint Louis University. Registration at 8 a.m., $10 attendance fee includes all sessions and lunch. Attendees must preregister by calling 800-9LUPUS6, email info@LFAheartland.org or go to http://tinyurl.com/lupusSTL.

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

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

Sat., Apr. 2, 4 p.m., “Praise is what We Do” a medley of African American Music to benefit the William G. Gillespie Scholarship Fund Cote Brilliante Presbyterian Church, 4673 Labadie Avenue For more information call 314381-2770.

Apr. 6 – Apr. 8, 6:30 p.m. nightly, Praise Ye The Lord Revival Christ Our Redeemer A.M.E. Church, 13820 Old Jamestown Road, Florissant, MO, 63033-4515. Featured speakers: Wednesday, April 6: Rev. Traci Blackmon - Pastor, Christ the King UCC, Thursday, April 7: (Youth Night) Rev. Shannon Reed, Friday, April 8 : Rev. Tremaine Combs - Pastor, Mount Zion M.B.C. For more information, please contact Christ Our Redeemer A.M.E. Church at (314) 741-4222.

Sun., Apr. 10, 3 p.m., Greater Fairfax Missionary Baptist Church 43rd Pastoral Anniversary forRev. Dr. Haymond Fortenberry with guest speaker Rev. Ralph Jackson, Greater Fairfax MB Church, 2941 Greer Ave. Call (314) 534-1993.

Friday Night Live! Christian fun for everyone! Come enjoy Instrumental Flute, Poetry, Holy Hip Hop, FREE Food, and Games. Featured Special Guest will be CES Magmatic (http://www.cmflows.com) and Point Five (http://www.point5 online.com).

PERKINS

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recordings such as Hard Again and I’m Ready in the late 1970s – Perkins inally had the chance to record as a leader.

At the age of 75, Perkins inally recorded his irst American album, After Hours, in 1988. Perkins went on to record several more releases as a leader, and participated in several tours with the Legendary Blues Band, sharing the stage with blues luminaries Jimmy Rogers, Hubert Sumlin, Snooky Pryor and Sam Lay.

It was with that band that I irst had the chance to hear Perkins perform live, and also had the chance to meet him.

The Blues Legends were part of a six-day Blues Festival put together by famed music event producer George Wein (who started the Newport Jazz Festival) that rolled through St. Louis in October 1988.

Headliners like Ray Charles, Albert King, Johnny Winter and Dr. John played at the Fox Theater, while a mix of national names such as James Cot-

SCOTT

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ness, happiness, anxiety, angst. It’s a wonderful instrument to pair with Marlissa’s voice.”

The April 7 concert also will feature another performance of Harbach’s Freedom Suite for String Quintet by the Dickson String Quartet – four AfricanAmerican siblings, Ashley Dickson, Brandon Dickson, Benjamin Dickson and Daniel Dickson – joined on double bass by Charles Clements. The program concludes with The Mechanical Cat – A Musical Preview, composed by Gretchen Hewitt, music,

ton, Otis Rush, Albert Collins and the Blues Legends band shared the stage at Mississippi nights for three evenings with St. Louis blues greats Henry Townsend, Oliver Sain, Johnny Johnson and others.

The Blues Legends closed the Saturday night show, following lengthy sets by Cotton, Rush, Ronnie Earl, Billy Peek and David Dee, and didn’t take the stage until after midnight. As a writer covering the festival, I was able to get access to the area reserved for the performers.

The musician I remember most vividly was Pinetop. He wore his ever-present fedora, and sipped a drink while waiting patiently to inally get on stage. When he found out we shared the same last name, he made a joke about “distant cousins,” and we both laughed. Over the next half-hour he talked and told stories about touring with Muddy Waters, working as a mechanic to make ends meet in the 1950s, tutoring a young Ike Turner in Mississippi on the intricacies of blues piano playing, and reminiscing about a list of blues legends he had played with or heard that stretched back to the 1920s.

n “Harriet’s Story came straight from my soul.”

– Barbara Harbach

and Janet Goddard, lyrics, and performed by Jen Theby and John Flack. A Missouri Celebratory Concert will be held at Unity Evangelical Lutheran Church, 8454 Glen Echo Dr. in Bel-Nor. The concert is free and open to the public. Call 314-382-4241.

I had the chance to hear Pinetop play several more times in St. Louis over the next few years – from an appearance at the 1993 Blues Heritage Festival to a performance with an all-star blues tour that played the Family Arena in St. Charles in 2004. Despite his years, he always brought energy and feeling to the keyboard every time he performed.

Pinetop had won his third Grammy earlier this year for his 2010 recording with Willie “Big Eyes” Smith, Joined at the Hip. And two days before he passed, he came onstage to play piano at a Bobby Rush concert that was part of Austin’s annual South By Southwest festival.

When I heard Pinetop Perkins had passed away, I immediately thought of sitting with him at Mississippi Nights more than two decades ago. I was happy to learn that he was still playing music, almost up until the day he died.

Pinetop will be buried Saturday April 2 in Clarksdale, Mississippi. Like St. Louis’ own Henry Townsend, his life relected almost a century of blues music. He will be missed, but his music lives on.

Marlissa Hudson CD release

Marlissa Hudson will celebrate the release of her CD Libera (previously reviewed in The American) with a concert 7 p.m. Friday, April 1 at Pilgrim UCC, 826 Union Blvd. Darryl Hollister is the collaborative pianist for this performance of works by Margaret Bonds, Mark Hayes, Fred Onovwerosuoke, Rudy Jean Perrault, and the world premiere of Lettie Alston’s Four Short Pieces for Soprano and Piano Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for students and children under 12. Call 3140367-8173 or 314-652-6800.

WINANS

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audience, the duo never existed in the shadow of their famous brothers – but in their own light.

“I’m excited about what we do because it shows that when the Word goes out, it accomplishes what it is supposed to do,” CeCe said. “God had a plan and a purpose – for our music and our lives.”

Now BeBe and CeCe have seen a staying power that is unmatched. They catapulted the Contemporary Gospel niche to new heights and have gold and platinum plaques, Grammy Awards and recognition in both gospel and secular music. In October, BeBe and CeCe will be honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

In the meantime, BeBe and CeCe will hit the road for the irst time in 15 years with the Still Something Big Tour, which comes to St. Louis on Sunday. They’ll sing alongside Mary Mary – another sibling act whose success in the hiphop generation in many ways mirrors what BeBe and CeCe did with the R&B scene.

“I’m just happy I get to see Mary Mary every night,” CeCe Winans said as she talked about the highlights of hitting the road with her brother.

There would probably be no Mary Mary had it not been for BeBe and CeCe. They paved the way for them and the likes of Kirk Franklin, Yolanda Adams, Smokie Norful and many other spiritual artists who have made a name in the secular scene.

“You can’t help but realize the blessing this whole journey has been,” BeBe said. “Plenty have come and gone – some gone quicker than they came. The whole experience has been rewarding and is something we don’t take for granted.”

It’s also something that they’ve worked to hone. BeBe said that good music – a good song with impeccable production and a simple, heartfelt message – has been as crucial

to reaching the masses as spreading “The Good News.”

“Our records hit no slack – there is nothing lacking,” BeBe said. “It’s the same as with any other genre.”

Their music took ministry outside of the church and delivered the message into the

n “It was wonderful to see what happens if you don’t place limitations on yourself – or God.”

– BeBe Winans

hands and hearts of the people who needed it most.

“I was sitting in a restaurant with my husband several years ago and this man – a Caucasian man – came up to me to said, ‘Aren’t you CeCe Winans?’” CeCe said. “He then went on to tell me that he irst heard our music when he was on the dance loor.

I didn’t know how I felt

about that at irst, but then he continued with his story. He said, ‘I didn’t know what you were talking about as I danced to it, but that song followed me home. And today I stand before you as a believer.’”

There legacy continues with a new generation thanks to their latest hit, last year’s “Close to You,” and their album Still

“We’re not perfect,” BeBe said. “But it has been a joy to sing what we sing and say what we say – and live what we sing about.”

The excitement and joy for BeBe and CeCe will continue when they take to the stage in St. Louis.

“Expect to see us on stage together having a ball,” BeBe said. “And expect to join in on the fun.”

“We want you to not just be entertained – but changed,” CeCe said. “We hope that you came in happy, but we want you to leave happier than you came.”

BeBe and CeCe Winans and Mary Mary’s Still Something Big Tour will come to the Fox Theatre on Sunday, April 3 at 7:30 p.m. For more information, call (314) 534-1111 or visit www.metrotix.com.

‘Lil Easter Fun for Everyone

Looking for something to do with family and friends this Easter weekend? St. Louis has a variety of unique events and activities planned, and they include everything from a day at the old ballpark to a night at the theater. For a complete list of special events taking place in St. Louis, visit the Calendar section of www.explorestlouis.com

The National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows (www.snows.org) will host a number of events throughout Holy Week, including: “We Were There,” a live re-enactment of the stations of the cross on April 19 at 7:30 p.m.; Tenebrae at 8 p.m., April 20; Holy Thursday Mass at 7:30 p.m. on April 21; Outdoor Way of the Cross at 1 p.m. and a Good Friday service at 3 p.m. on April 22; Easter Vigil Mass on April 23 at 8 p.m.; and Easter Sunday Mass at 6:45 a.m., 9:30 a.m., and 11:30 a.m.

The St. Louis Black Repertory Company (www. theblackrep.org) presents “Black Pearl Sings!” at the Grandel Theatre, April 20 - May 5. This powerful story about two women attempting to bridge America’s racial divide features Susannah, a song collector for Library of Congress, who encounters a woman named Pearl in a Texas prison. Susannah asks Pearl to give away her African ancestors’ songs for a chance at freedom. Call 314-534-3810 for ticket information and show times.

receives a Junior Ranger Badge upon completion.

The Saint Louis Zoo’s (www.stlzoo.org) “Breakfast with the Bunny” takes place on April 23 at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m., which includes a full breakfast, treats, costumed characters and a family photo with the Bunny. The animals get into the act on Sunday, April 24 with the annual “Enrichment Eggstravaganza” from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Zookeepers provide enrichment “egg hunt” activities for the animals, much to the delight of zoo visitors.

Speaking of singing, the Marvin & Harlene Wool Studio Theatre on the Millstone Campus of Jewish Community Center (www. newjewishtheatre.org) comes alive with “Awake and Sing!,” April 20 - May 8. The gritty, passionate, funny and heartbreaking play is set in a Bronx tenement during the Great Depression and features the Bergers – a workingclass Jewish family desperately 314-442-3283.

The Redbirds will spend Easter weekend tangling with their Central division rivals from Cincinnati as the Cardinals and Reds play a three-game set, April 22-24, at Busch Stadium Tickets are available at www.stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com and by calling 314-345-9000.

Saturday, April 23, is a Junior Ranger Day at the Gateway Arch (www.gatewayarch. com) and Old Courthouse (www.nps.gov/ jeff). From 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., kids ages 4-12 can take part in the program that includes stories, games and activities about explorers, pioneers, cowboys and native people throughout American history. All activities are directed by the National Park Service staff and each participant

The stingrays are returning to the zoo just in time for Easter. Visitors can watch, touch and even feed these fascinating ocean creatures as they glide through their tropical saltwater habitat. The 17,000-gallon pool includes cownose and southern stingrays as well as some newcomers for 2011: sharks. Yep, the stingrays brought some muscle with them this time – brownbanded bamboo and (Easter?) bonnethead sharks – so be nice to our wet ‘n’ wild visitors. “Stingrays at Caribbean Cove Featuring Sharks” will be on display, April 23 - September 25. A number of St. Louis’ most popular restaurants are kicking things up a notch in honor of Easter brunch, including: Vin de Set (www.vindeset.com, 314-241-8989); Bevo Mill (www. thebevomill.com, 314-832-6776); and Remington’s at the Holiday Inn St. Louis South (314894-0700). At the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows, a ShrimpFest Buffet is available April 22 and a GermanFest Buffet on April 23. Easter buffets offered on April 24 are: a breakfast buffet (8 -11:30 a.m.), a brunch buffet (11:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.) and a dinner buffet (3 -7:30 p.m.). Reservations are recommended for all establishments. They’ll be rolling at The Magic House, St. Louis Children’s Museum (www.magichouse. org) on Monday, April 25. Taking a cue from the White House, the Magic House is holding its first Egg Roll for kids 12 and under. Participants will race to roll an egg with a large spoon – first one across the finish line wins! Additional activities include a special story time, egg dying, making “Medals of Eggsellence,” and a meet-and-greet with the Easter Bunny and characters from Alice in Wonderland. Activities are free with museum admission. For a complete list of activities and events happening throughout the St. Louis area log onto www.explorestlouis.com

St. Louis Convention and Visitors Commission

Congratulations to Myria Grimmett for achieving a 4.0 during her first semester as a college freshman. Myria is studying to be a medical assistant. Congratulations 4.0 for Grimmett

~ CELEBRATIONS ~

Honored National Honor Society

Misha Foster was recently inducted into Phi Eta Sigma. Phi Eta Sigma is an honor society for students who have attained a cumulative grade point average of 3.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale. Phi Eta Sigma is the oldest and largest national honor society for first-year students. Misha is the daughter of Leroy and Jamie Foster of St. Louis, Missouri and granddaughter of James and Fannie Simpson, both retired teachers of St. Louis Public Schools.

Birthdays

Caleb Brown-Barge (11) — March 27

Hakeem H. Freeman (18) — March 28

Damara Elgin (1)

April 2

Reunions

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

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 Class of 1966 is holding meetings for their 45year reunion. Next meeting is Sat., April 2, 2011 at 2:00 p.m. at the Whole Community Center on Kingshighway. Meetings are held every other Saturday.

Beaumont High Class of 1971 has scheduled its 40-year reunion for August 5-7, 2011. E-mail your contact information to beaumont71alumni@ yahoo.com for details.

Cardinal RitterCollege Prep High School is seeking members of the classes of 1981 1996, 2001 and 2006 for upcoming reunions. Please contact Alumi Affairs Director, Tonya Farr at 314-446-5506 or tfarr@cardinalritterprep .org for more information.

Cardinal RitterPrep. High School Class of 1986 is preparing for its 25-year reunion. We are looking for all classmates to update information and participate in monthly meetings. Please contact Mike Reynolds at (314) 5789621-mreynolds@cardinalritterprep.org or Sylvester Williams at (314) 629-4429sylwilliams@cardinalritterprep. org.

Central High School Class of 1971 is preparing for its 40year reunion in 2011. We are looking for all classmates of 1971. We need your contact information to complete our class directory. Please email your information to Preston Kerns or Alice Manuel Robinson at centralclassof71@yahoo.com.

Farragut-Beaumont

Neighborhood Reunion Dance and Fundraiser will be held Sat., May 21, 2011 from 8 pm to 1 am at the Omega Center, 3900 Goodfellow. For more information, contact boyds@stlouiscity.com, mscatmay@sbc.com or 314-3278330.

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

Northwest High School Class of 1971 is preparing for its 40year reunion. We are looking for all classmates interested in attending and/or to help plan the festivies. Call Jeanette at 314 398-0383, Willie at 314 378-8326 or Diane at 4986886.

Soldan High School Classes of 1966and1967 45-year reunion will be held June 1618, 2011 at the Ameristar Casino in St. Charles, MO. For more information please contact: Marilyn Edwards Simpson at 314-837-7746, Meredith Wayne Farrow at 314-521-8540, email: stlsoldanhs1966@yahoo.com or Facebook: stlsoldanhs1966.

SumnerHigh School Class of 1992 is planning its 20-year reunion. Please contact P. Parker for further information

at parkp@live.com.

SumnerClass of 1976 is celebrating its 35-year reunion August 19-21, 2001 and is seeking all classmates to attend the reunion planning meetings. Special reunion registration pricing is available through April 15, 2011. For more information about the reunion or regular registration pricing, please call B. Louis 385-9843 or S. Johnson 355-4719 or email: sumnerclassof76@yahoo. com.

SumnerClass of 1961 is preparing for its 50-year reunion, which will be held on June 3-5, 2011. If you have not received your info in the mail, please send your information to sledgesisternumber3@yahoo.com.

University City High School Class of 1991 presents its 20year reunion June 9-12, 2011. The cost is $150 per person. Children 6 and older are $25; under 6 are free. Our host hotel, Renaissance St. Louis Airport Hotel, has lodging available at $79 per night. All payments must be received by May 31, 2011. For payments & more information, please visit our website: http://www.wix.com/aeeshabell/ucityclassof1991 or contact Demetrius Stewart at Trinitywash3@sbcglobal.net or Aeesha Bell at aeeshabell@gmail.com.

O’Fallon Technical High

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

School Class of 1981 is beginning preparations for the 30year class reunion in 2011. We are seeking classmate contact information to complete our class directory. Please email Chrystal Riley at kittstark@ aol.com for information.

Riddick School Neighborhood will host its first reunion, September 2-4, 2011. For information please call:Catherine Kendricks at 314-741-4059, Wanda Anderson Simms at 314-3837046 or Wanette Anderson Johnson at 314-869-9692.

Ayden Orlando Huye was born on February 3, 2011 to proud parents Nedra and Antwoine and even prouder grandparents Arnold and Linda Mitchell and Mr. and Mrs. Huye.

Caleb BrownBarge

Hakeem H. Freeman Damara Elgin

Bread for the World 2011

Bread for the World 2011 is hosting an “Offering of Letters Workshop” at Parkway United Church of Christ, 2841 N. Ballas Rd., St Louis, MO 63131, Saturday, April 2, 9 a.m. to noon, with light breakfast at 8:30 a.m.

Organizers say, “Every day, almost 16,000 children die from hunger-related causes. That’s one child every five seconds. How do we respond for the least of these? At this workshop you can learn how to advocate for our world neighbors living in extreme poverty through reform of our country’s foreign assistance.”

They add, “Join with Bread for the World members to be a collective Christian voice urging our nation’s decision makers to end hunger.” For more information, contact :Gayle Lyles, 636-441-6068 or flyles@sbcglobal.net.

Dance Ministry recital

Solomon’s Temple Church Dance Ministry will present a recital entitled “GRACE & MERCY” at Missouri History Museum, Lindell and DeBaliviere in Forest Park, at 4 p.m. Sunday, April 10. Praise Dance Leader Sis. Angela Jackson said, “According to Exodus 33:19: And he said, I will make all my goodness pass before thee, and I will proclaim the name of the LORD before thee; and will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will shew mercy on whom I will shew mercy.”

She added, “What a joy it is to Dance to the Lord in Praise, while leading others into that place of appreciation for the God we serve!”

Tickets are $10 per person. For further info, visit solomon-

Rev. Rouse laid to rest

The East St. Louis community lost a giant civic and spiritual leader with the passing of the Rev. John H. Rouse on March 12, 2011, after suffering a heart attack. Rouse, 70, was the long-time pastor of Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church, at 2235 Bond Ave., East St. Louis, IL. Ministers Cecil Johnson and Willie Seals stand guard as mourners file by as the Min.

stemplechurch.org or solomonstemplechurch@i1.net or call 314-746-4599.

A Gospel Skate

New Jerusalem Temple Church of God, 8204 Page Blvd., Vinita Park, MO 63130, will present A Gospel Skate at the St. Louis Skatium, 120 E. Catalan Ave., St. Louis, MO 63111 at the corner of S. Broadway Ave. Friday, April 8 from 5:30-9:30 p m.

Organizers said, “So, whether you skate or not, bring the whole family and come fellowship and enjoy the Lord with us as we have fun at the Skatium. Saints can have fun too!”

Please visit http://njtgospelskate.eventbrite.com/ for more details and to purchase tickets. Tickets are $5 and include the

cost of skate rental.

Health Fair and Concert

The American Heart/Stroke Association will present “Most Powerful Voices Gospel Tour –Health Fair and Concert” at two locations. April 15-16. Organizers promise, “Hundreds will join as they raise their voices in song to heighten awareness about stroke at the Most Powerful Voices Gospel Concert and Health Fair hosted by St. Louis gospel legend Merdean Fielding Gales, featuring Grammy award winner, Dorinda Clark Cole.”

Stroke is the No. 3 killer of African Americans and the third leading cause of death in Missouri and Illinois. Risk factors for heart disease and stroke are disproportionately high among

A blessing in every circumstance

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” –Jeremiah 29:11

It’s hard to find inspiration in our everyday lives. So often we are consumed with life’s dilemmas, dramas and goingson that we rarely take time to be inspired by something or anything.

Inspiration is the spark that ignites gratitude and leaves behind beautiful flashes of grace. It would seem that we live as passersby floating through our lives as visitors barely recognizing how the Creator is at work in each and every moment.

the surface of presumed predictability.

African Americans: prevalence of hypertension in African Americans in the United States is among the highest in the world; African Americans develop high blood pressure at an earlier age; and 58 to 68 percent of African-American men and women are either overweight or obese.

The Friday, April 15 event will be held at Greater Grace Church, 3690 Pershall Road, Ferguson, MO 63135. The Saturday, April 16 event will be held at Power of Change Christian Center, 2348 Jerome Lane, Cahokia, IL 62206. Times for both events: 4:30–6:30 p.m. for Free Health Screenings; 6:30 p.m. for the Gospel Celebration. This events are free and open to the public. To learn more, visit www.strokeassociation.org/ power or call 1-888-4STROKE.

I have been guilty of this myself. I have missed opportunities to love and be loved, to befriend and be befriended, and to mourn loss as well as have others mourn with me. You could say that I was just too busy, or too something to take time to understand that every moment that God gives us is precious.

Although some of life’s moments may at first glance seem mundane, ceremonial, and part of the perpetual cycle of life, they are moments that can inspire us to look beyond

Several years ago I was asked by my former boss to attend an awards banquet in her place. She was being honored for her work in the prevention field. Although I felt honored to have been asked to accept her award as she was overseas receiving another accolade, I was hesitant. I found myself murmuring and pouting, wondering why she did not select someone else, as I was part of a staff of at least 10. After all, I had stuff to do. Reluctantly, I accepted the tickets and invited a friend to go with me as a guest. To my great surprise and amazement, I had a really great time and met other esteemed award recipients whose work had impacted me throughout the years. When the ceremony ended, I remembered thinking how inspired I was by an evening that surpassed even my shallow expectations. I was immensely grateful for the experience and the moment. My hope is that you will find a blessing in every circumstance, whether good or bad, easy or difficult. And that the blessing you find will inspire you. Let miracles happen while you are watching. And Be Inspired.

Accepting Inspirational Messages

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

Helen Washington

Rouse lies in state at the church. Photo by Wiley Price

Celebrity Swagger Snap of the Week

Janky Promoters Live: The Musical. I knew from the gate that there would be some kind of problems with the alleged Jaheim show Friday night – but even I didn’t expect a straight up “no call, no show!” In all of my years of doing what I do, I can only think of one other time that it has happened – and it was THE LAST TIME JAHEIM WAS SUPPOSED TO COME TO TOWN. Now for those of you who still have twisted faces from the show, let me tell y’all what else I know about the non-show. Neither the radio station nor the Ambassador were responsible for that mess.

Word on the curb is that the promoters gave the money to another promoter to pay Jaheim. Allegedly, the promoter responsible for kickin’ Jaheim down didn’t pay it forward and opted for running off into the sunset with the money. The promoters who came up with the cash were said to be left holdin’the ball and looking ridiculous.

I knew when the folks at the front tables started easing out that there was something ishy going on. Folks were whisperin’ that all of the promoters knew the play, but I don’t believe so. I mean, would you show up to an event if you knew you were orchestrating a scam?

Anyway, I guess I should get on with the play by play.

About three local acts into the show, the soulfuls were hip that somethin’ just wasn’t quite right. They were restless and got to booing some of the performers rightfully so.

But when Syleena Johnson took the stage (at around 10:15 p.m. for an 8 p.m. show) a couple of people in the crowd couldn’t hold their peace. One woman yelled out “Where the [bleep] is Jaheim?” while Syleena was singing. Syleena replied “I don’t know where he at, but this is my time – so sit yo’ [bleep] down because I don’t play that.”

The lady was obviously scared straight, because everything else she said after that was under her breath.

Syleena’s set ended and Niecy delivered the bad news – and all “you know what” broke loose. If the majority of the crowd would have been eight years younger and exercising regularly a riot would have broken out for sho’!

One woman dressed in her best church banquet attire – and an orthopedic surgery boot – said it all.

“I came out for this show with my bunion still soft…I can’t believe this.”

I don’t know exactly what a “soft bunion” means, but considering her sincerity, it seemed like the perfect way to sum things up.

All the people who paid please keep me up to speed on the refund process or lack thereof that is supposed to start on Thursday.

Condolences for Kid Capri. I’m sorry for the novel that I just provided in breakin’ down my disgust with that Jaheim mess – but it was necessary! And another thing, why would they leave the folks hangin’ on until 11 p.m. to say that Jaheim wasn’t in the house? I missed a whole party waitin’ around when I could have been spreadin’ my kickin’ around to give y’all more rundown.

Okay enough about that other show…let me move beyond it to my next order of business.As plenty know by now, Kid Capri’s mother died on the day he was supposed to come to the STL and break it down on the ones and twos – so he sat out the visit. But the EXO crowd forgave him and showed love by kickin’ it the same way they would have done had he been there – thanks in part to Mocha Latte on the mic and Reminisce on the tables. The crowd was down the street by the time I got there, and they kept comin’until it was all said and done. My heartfelt sympathy to Kid Capri, and I hope that you can roll through the Lou once you get your head and heart right, so you can see how we’ll get down for your sake.

Pooch at Posh. Even though a little birdie told me that the masses were utterly disgusted by the season inale of “The Game,” I have a feelin’ none of the ladies will hold it against Pooch Hall when he hits up Club Posh Saturday night thanks to the wonderful Galloways! Every time he comes to town, STL fans can’t seem to get enough sips of his supple and ample hairline.

I don’t know what time the party starts, but please keep in mind that it’s the East Side, so chances are it won’t get poppin’ until midnight (at the earliest).

Good timin’ with the Galloways. Since I’ve already mentioned them, I might as well continue – and by continue I mean let y’all know about a couple of other things they have poppin’ off this weekend…and next weekend too.

That’s right, this weekend the Galloways will have something for everybody. Not only will they have Pooch Hall at Posh, but for the seasoned and sexy they will be hosting the Dramatics at Lights on Broadway this Saturday night. The show starts at 8 p.m. Then on next Saturday (April 9) Mr. Galloway will be heading up a team of nearly twenty VIP folks that will be getting’ together to get down for the sake of the Aries with their annual bash. You don’t have to take my word for it when I tell you it is a do not miss for the 40 plus crowd, but you’ll be missing out if you assume I’m wrong.

Heatin’ up with Hosea. For those lovers of the Game who prefer an Eddie Munster that won’t quit instead of Pooch’s Treasure Troll hair game, well the STL is giving you some options. While Pooch has the Eastside on lock, Hosea Chanchez will be hosting a special edition of So Sexy Saturdays at EXO on the other side of the bridge. If I were y’all I’d go ahead and hit them both up.

Reincarnation of Suite Soul. It brings such sweet joy to my soul…get it… anyway, The Suite Soul Spot is comin’back all big and bad with one of my favorite soul artists. That’s right, the series that brought you Eric Roberson, Algebra Blessett, Choklate and Yazarah (a.k.a. Purple St. James) will be back at the Old Rock House (1200 S. 7th St.) Saturday night for what will be a supreme night for soul music thanks to Anthony David. The show starts at 8 p.m.

Taking notice. I would be out of my mind if I didn’t toss a shout out to the LiquidAssets team for givin’props to everyone with a worthy entertainment hustle in the STL on Sunday night with the 3rd Annual Notice Me Awards. There wouldn’t be any room for much else if I named off all of the winners – so I’ll make this a mass shout out (that way I can’t be accused of playing favorites). There were some surprise wins that were in the mix of “I knew it.” Either way, I tip my hat to the guests, nominees, awardees AND ESPECIALLY the organizers. Let’s keep encouraging Phil Alice and the rest of the crew for givin’ them some time to shine. Oh

and I

to the Roberts for allowing them to

yeah,

can’t forget a virtual pound

use the towers.

The beauty and brains behind Butterscotch Bell were in the building Friday night @ EXO

EJ and Damon got an eyeful thanks to MPAC and the Eye Candy Party Friday night @ The Loft

Damion and Ashley Friday night @ The Ambassador

Foxy 95.5’s Niecy Davis and soul singer Syleena Johnson Friday night @ The Ambassador

Notice Me nominee Niddy and his date sit back and enjoy the awards Sunday @ Roberts Towers

These ladies were eager to meet hip-hop heartthrob Wiz Khalifa Wednesday night @ Flamigo Bowl

The top three Eye Candy Finalists @ The Loft

Sar and Nina sat back and peeped the sexy vibe Friday night @ EXO

Haley was on hand to applaud some of St. Louis’ stars Sunday night @ Roberts Towers

Tonya was one of many pretty faces in the building Friday night @ EXO

Big Tah and DJ Jewell Friday night @ MPAC’s Eye Candy Party @ The Loft

LOUIS AMERICAN

Cutting Head Start would be a step back

By Judge Greg Mathis For The St.Louis American

After being urged by President Obama to invest in our nation’s students, you would think our federal lawmakers would do anything they could to preserve a program that sets the foundation for a lifetime of achievement, right?

Wrong.

Once again, Republicans are moving to cut a program that helps average Americans and, in this case, specifically the poor. The Head Start Program is yet another social program the Republican Party has targeted for major cuts. Head Start provides educational and health services to low-income children and their families.

Provides educational and health services to low-income children

Research shows students who complete Head Start do better both socially and academically and are less likely to drop out of high school. Yet, Republicans want to cut the program by more than 22-percent. They say Head Start isn’t as effective as supporters claim.

Research shows students who complete Head Start do better both socially and academically and are less likely to drop out of high school.

Head Start has been one of the most studied early education programs since it began more than 40 years ago. The program has proven itself to be one of the United States’most successful social experiments and an efficient use of taxpayer dollars.

To be fair, some studies show that achievement levels of some Head Start attendees start to drop off after first grade. However, this could speak to the quality of the school they enroll in after the program. Additionally, the program’s opponents say too much money is spent maintaining the program and not enough on enrolling new students.

It’s not clear if the Republican Party is against poor people, working mothers, low-income children or all three. All of the cuts it’s leaders have moved to make have been to programs the support and empower the poor.If they are successful in taking away the building blocks that many

have used to create a foundation for future success, America’s middle class will continue to shrink and the number of families living below the poverty line will increase.

If the Republicans were serious about balancing the budget they’d take a look at programs with inflated and misappropriated budgets, starting with the military. Sure, it’s critical that the U.S. has a strong military in place but

studies have shown that program is rife with wasteful spending.

It’s not the only area where money is either being wasted or being misused. Agood, honest budget scrub will show the Republicans – and Democrats – just which programs can handle significant cuts.

If you believe in the power of Head Start and can testify to how it helped a child – past or present – in your life, call your elected officials. Let them

know that they absolutely cannot cut Head Start. Our children’s – and our nation’s –success depends on it.

Police and firefighter training

The St. Louis Public School District’s Office of Career and Technical Education, in partnership with the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, the St. Louis Fire

Department, and St. Louis Community College at Forest Park, is enrolling students for the St. Louis Police and Firefighter Training Program (SLPFTP) for the 2011-2012 school year. SLPFTPis an afterschool program that enables students, beginning in their junior year of high school, to earn high school credit, college credit, and to receive training at both the police training academy and the fire training academy. At the end of their senior year, students enrolled in the program will have earned 5 high school credits and a possible 13 college credits. Students may also receive the necessary training to earn Emergency Medical Technical (EMT) certification if certain criteria are met. Current St. Louis Public School sophomores and juniors who have a 2.0 grade point average or higher, along with their parents, are invited to an Informational Session about this program on Tuesday, April 19, from 5:30 –7 p.m. at St. Louis Community College Forest Park , 5600 Oakland Ave, in Building E Cafeteria.To attend you must RSVPno later than Friday, April 15, by calling Angie Crawford at (314) 345-4555.

Judge Greg Mathis