May 22nd, 2014 Edition

Clear Channel chops Tony Scott

By Kenya Vaughn Of The St.

than usual, thanks to a visit by popular New York radio personality turned talk show host Wendy Williams. She stopped at the studio while in town doing promos for the upcoming season of her nationally syndicated “Wendy Williams Show”

Tony Scott was dismissed by Clear Channel on Friday after more than 25 years as an on air personality with Majic.

Jackie Gladney and Sgt. Cathy Dennis escorted the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department’s mascot down Market Street in the Annie

SpeAking of fAith

Normandy district lapsed

Contracts void, new board to be appointed

Nicastro: ‘he failure is Missouri’s, not that of a struggling community’

By Dale Singer Of St. Louis Public Radio

COLUMBIA, Mo. – The Missouri Board of Education voted unanimously Tuesday to replace the Normandy School District with a new entity with the same boundaries but run by an appointed board, effective July 1.

n “I have confidence that Normandy can and will improve.”

– Chris Nicastro, commissioner of elementary and secondary education for the state

The accreditation status of the new district was not immediately clear. That means that no one is sure yet whether students in the district would be able to take advantage of the state’s transfer law and enroll in accredited schools in nearby districts. The state board is expected to take up that question and others at its meeting in June. And the status of Normandy and its students could be further affected by the 135-page transfer bill passed by lawmakers last week that is now sitting on the desk of Gov. Jay Nixon, awaiting his signature or his veto. Chris Nicastro, commissioner of elementary and secondary education for the state, and Peter Herschend, president of the state board, both made clear that the vote to create the new Normandy Schools Collaborative is hardly the end of the process.

“I have confidence that Normandy can and will improve,” Nicastro said in introducing her recommendation to the board. “But it will take bold innovation and significant change. Business as usual will not be sufficient. The problem is urgent and it is ours, not just theirs. The failure is Missouri’s, not just that of a struggling

Pastor Morris leaves Lane Tabernacle

By Chris King Of The St. Louis American

The Rev. James T. Morris, senior pastor of Lane Tabernacle Christian Methodist Episcopal (CME) Church, is leaving the pulpit and St. Louis after 14 years of service. Morris has been an outspoken, progressive voice in the local clergy – and state Legislature, where he served a term as Democratic state representative. He spoke up, particularly, on labor and health issues, opposing then Gov. Matt Blunt’s sweeping cuts to Medicaid. At Lane Tabernacle, he oversaw the establishment of the church’s Health Ministry and Comprehensive Cancer Coalition and the opening of its community

center, the Isom Center. Morris, 53, a native of Paducah, Kentucky and married father of three sons, also struggled against the orthodoxy at Lane. He said he tried to bring diversity to Lane on several issues and failed, and that ultimately is why he is leaving in a bid to serve as CME bishop and advocate for change at a higher level. He talked to The American about this struggle.

The St. Louis American: Why are you leaving Lane Tabernacle?

Rev. James T. Morris: I have taken the Tabernacle as far as I can take it, or as far as they will go with me.

Parade-watchers were excited to see Sam Safety when Officer

Malone May Day Parade on Sunday.

Photo by Wiley Price

Cynthia Bond reveals sources for captivating debut novel ‘Ruby’

The Rev. James T. Morris, senior pastor of Lane Tabernacle Christian Methodist Episcopal (CME) Church, delivered one of his last sermons at Lane on Sunday morning.

Photo by John Scott

Are child services investigating the Smiths after Willow pic?

According to RadarOnline.com, the Los Angeles Department of Children & Family Services has officially opened an investigation stemming from the picture of 13-year-old Willow Smith and the 20-year –old actor that went viral.

“The investigation was formally opened last week and is being taken very seriously by the department,” an insider told Radar. “Will and Jada Pinkett Smith have been extremely cooperative with officials. Of course, they aren’t happy that their parenting skills are under scrutiny, but they understand.

The source revealed, “Social workers will also be talking separately with Willow, and they also want to talk to the young man in the picture with her as well. This won’t just be one or two visits with the family, and it will likely be an open investigation.”

Kenya vs. Vivica beef moves from ‘Celebrity Apprentice’ to Instagram

Last month there were rumors that Kenya Moore had been eliminated from Celebrity Apprentice after some sort of scandal involving a stolen cell phone.

According to The Daily Mail Kenya Moore stole fellow contestant Vivica A. Fox’s cell phone and posted an embarrassing Tweet on Fox’s Twitter account complaining about the effects of menopause.

Fox used her Instagram page to continue the beef. In a pic caption “no this trick [expletive] [expletive] did not just go there!” Vivica comments “The truth will be revealed very soon trick. I’m just saying. My phone was stolen by you. Shortly after Fox’s post, Moore posts what appears to a mannequin head that she caption “I had a little work done in Europe. Too much or nah? LOL. The mannequin appears to be in likeness of Fox and Moore is clearly taking a jab at Fox and her reportedly extensive plastic surgery.

Kevin Hart blast ex-wife for badmouthing his current boo

In an interview promoting her new reality show, “Hollywood Exes Atlanta,” Torrei Hart told ET’s Rocsi Diaz all was not well between her and ex-husband Kevin Hart’s new girlfriend.

“I never lashed out. I never tried to punch her in the face, even though I’ve had moments where -- trust and believe -- I wanted to K.O. her [expletive]. It does hurt that my kids have to be around a woman who broke up a marriage. I was with [Kevin] when he was selling sneakers for five dollars an hour.

I was at every show. I was at his first show where he ever did standup ... I was his muse. I was there from the beginning.”

Kevin Hart got wind of her comments and unleashed his personal feelings on the matter.

“Here’s what’s sad…My EX wife is the mother of my two beautiful kids and is well taken care of. I go above and beyond what the court ordered me to do,” Hart tweeted.

“Because she is the mother of my kids I would never slander her name or anybody she’s dealing with.

I’ve actually embraced the man she is dealing with with (sic) nothing but positivity.

I’m a mature adult not a teenager. For her to continue to talk about my woman is honestly sad. Especially after five years of us being 2gether and a total of 6 ½ years from me

leaving her. Don’t believe the hype people.”

Apollo opens up about crimes and marriage on V103

As he prepares to face jail time, Apollo Nida (wife of “Real Housewives of Atlanta” star Phaedra Parks) put it all on the table during an interview with Atlanta’s V103.

“At the end of the day, I’m so remorseful. I grew up without a mother and a father. What hurts me the most is the fact that I could potentially be leaving my sons. I resonate with Ayden more because he’s four years old now. So when he cries out for me, and I’m not there for him, then potentially who knows what could happen?

On what motivated his crimes:

Guess what? Apollo has never had a handout from day one. Never. Whatever [Phaedra]

‘Ambassador of darts’ recruiting players

Preston Humphrey Jr. wants you for Blueberry Hill dart league

By Chris King Of The St. Louis American

Preston Humphrey Jr. runs a dart league at Blueberry Hill on Wednesday nights, the same night of the week Chuck Berry plays his regular gig there. Humphrey has never thrown darts with the rock & roll legend, though Berry did watch him represent the league once.

One night Joe Edwards, owner of Blueberry Hill and manager of Chuck Berry, brought the star down to the pub’s basement Elvis Room, where Humphrey was hosting the dart league. The rooms upstairs were crowded, and Berry was simply looking for a place to eat his dinner in peace.

“Joe shows up at the bottom of the steps and Chuck Berry is standing there with him,” Humphrey said. “And Joe says, ‘Is it okay if we sit down here and eat and watch TV?’”

The anecdote says something about the humility of Joe Edwards, one of the region’s most transformative developers, and the respect he pays his staff (in this instance, volunteer staff). Edwards felt the need to ask his dart league manager before he intruded into dart league space.

It also says something about Preston Humphrey Jr. and how tightly he manages the pub’s dart league, which is recruiting teams for the next season starting June 11.

“I’m Blueberry Hill’s ambassador of darts,” Humphrey said, with utmost sincerity.

Humphrey – who has been alive exactly as many years as Blueberry Hill has been hosting darts, 42 – grew up in North St. Louis. He started throwing darts at Blueberry Hill while studying law at Washington University School of Law in 1996. He attended the league as a spectator until one of the competitors, Art Thames, pressed him into playing.

“He literally drug me into a doubles match,” Humphrey said. “I had never thrown a dart in my life.” Humphrey already had been coming for the camaraderie, and he found that aspect only got better once he was competing. When he graduated from law school,

a junior attorney, he found he needed that weekly camaraderie more than ever.

“One of the things they don’t tell you in law school is how unhappy-slash-miserable a young attorney’s life is,” Humphrey said.

“When you’re the low man on the totem pole getting yelled at by your bosses, at least you knew on Wednesday night you

n “Everybody

likes Preston, and that is always important in leadership.”

– Joe Edwards, Blueberry Hill

were going to have some fun.”

He started to help run the league for a few years before taking it over officially in 2007.

“Preston is one of those wonderful people who enjoys the social aspect of people,” Edwards said. “Everybody likes him, and that is always important in leadership. He has built up the number of teams and built up interest in the league.”

Humphrey is trying to build up even

7:30 p.m. Wednesday nights. It costs $15 to join, with the proceeds mostly funding a banquet at season’s end. It’s a sport that can be mastered and played competitively, and Humphrey does have to referee occasionally heated disagreements. But anybody can play.

“You don’t have to be good at it to enjoy the game,” Edwards said. “You aim at a certain spot on the board. You miss. You aim again. You hit! Whoopee! Then you have an adult beverage to celebrate.”

It’s not difficult to appreciate why Humphrey might need a little ritual entertainment. He is now a self-employed attorney practicing personal injury law and federal criminal defense. Many of his clients – accused sex criminals and alleged interstate drug dealers – are not the sort of people you’d want to drink beer and throw darts with. When Humphrey closes his briefcase at the end of the day, he needs a sanctuary.

“As much as it has meant for me, that’s why I took over the league, to make sure it’s there for other people,” Humphrey said. “I love this place. I have met friends for life playing darts here.”

For more information on the Blueberry Hill dart league, which resumes play June 11, email Humphrey at phumphrey@

Opportunity in Nigeria

Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr. Chicago Sun-Times

An outrage against decency – the kidnapping of over 270 young girls in northeastern Nigeria by the Islamic terrorist group Boko Haram – has brought Nigeria international attention. The U.N. Security Council voted unanimously to hold Boko Haram accountable for crimes against humanity. Michelle Obama voiced her outrage. The U.S., China, and Britain sent advisors to help locate and free the little girls. Moslem religious leaders have condemned the kidnappings. The U.S. should use this moment not simply to help bring back the kidnapped girls, but to also bring forth a comprehensive U.S. policy towards Nigeria. Nigeria is a country of 170 million people, one fourth of the population of Sub-Saharan Africa. Nigeria has the largest economy in all of Africa. It is the largest producer of oil in Africa, and the world’s fourth leading exporter of liquid natural gas. It has 120 million cell phone subscribers. Its burgeoning movie industry is now ranked at about 1.5 percent of its economy and employs over a million people. An estimated

n To date this year, according to United Nations figures, Boko Haram has killed more than 1,500 people.

1.5 million Nigerians and Nigerian Americans live in the U.S. The kidnappers of the girls, Boko Haram, pose a growing threat. Violence in the isolated and impoverished northeast is spreading. Boko Haram indicts the government for corruption and violence. It promises to enforce Sharia law across the territories. To date this year, according to United Nations figures, Boko Haram has killed more than 1,500 people. It is well funded, well organized and deadly. It will take significant international assistance and coordination to root it out. Providing assistance in trying to save the kidnapped girls is beneficial. But the U.S. needs to have a far more comprehensive policy towards Nigeria – and subSaharan African in general. Nigeria is far more important to us than Ukraine is. Yet the U.S. government is fixated on Ukraine, and relatively disengaged from Nigeria. We should not need the threat posed by Boko Haram to make us realize the importance of Nigeria. Isolating and crushing Boko Haram, while engaging and helping to build Nigeria, should be a centerpiece of U.S. policy and attention.

Columnist Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr.

Preston Humphrey Jr. and Joe Edwards sink a few darts in Blueberry Hill’s basement Elvis Room. Photo by Wiley Price

Editorial /CommEntary

More connected than ever

We were astonished and humbled this past week by the power of journalism, which has been intensified and accelerated by the internet and the interactivity of social media. Two incidents reminded us how very connected we all are and how immediately we can reach our community now – for better and worse.

On Thursday our photojournalist, Wiley Price, took a cue from the police scanner and responded to a knifing in front of the Central Library downtown. He was on the scene to photograph what may have been the dying victim’s last, bloody gasp. As any photojournalist would, Wiley took pride in capturing news – even the worst of news – as it happened, then rushed back to the newsroom to edit and file his photograph. Our internet and social media staff posted it to stlamerican.com and to our Facebook page where it immediately began to inspire a conversation that spread quickly to other people’s pages.

tip that Tony Scott, the engaging and beloved radio personality on Majic 100.3 FM, had been dismissed after more than 25 years. She confirmed the dismissal and posted a brief, 157-word news report on stlamerican.com that she promoted on Facebook and Twitter. At press time for this print edition, Kenya’s brief report was one of the most-read stories ever posted on our website or Facebook page. On Facebook alone it received 485 Shares (that is, re-posts to personal pages), 277 Likes (by people grateful to receive the news, even though it was bad news) and 168 comments by people who had something to say about it. More than 88,000 people saw her report through Facebook alone.

A loved one of the by now dead man – who was killed while protecting a friend from an assailant – saw the photograph on our Facebook page before she knew of the incident. Deeply grieved and outraged, she called to complain in tones that caused our receptionist to call the police, though we took down the image from our website and Facebook page without further incident. We believe Wiley was correct in reporting the news, and we published his photograph as a graphic reminder of the violent crime that plagues our community. The comment thread the image immediately provoked was a needed conversation about the violence that surrounds us and our need to address it proactively. But in the end, as a community institution, we respected the wishes of the distraught family, silenced this conversation, and offer the family our deepest condolences.

The next day, our web editor and arts reporter Kenya Vaughn responded to an inside

These two events show that The St. Louis American, formerly limited to a weekly newspaper, truly has entered the 21st century of everpresent digital media. Five years ago, our community would have waited nearly a week to hear from us about Tony Scott’s dismissal. Now they were hearing about it in real time while the man was still cleaning out his office. It’s also true that five years ago no one would have seen the image of the knifed Good Samaritan. As a positive community newspaper, we seldom publish graphic crime photos in our print edition. The internet and social media, we feel, are more acceptable places to share this deeply disturbing but important news with our community. However, this latest tragic incident has provoked a new round of soul-searching in our newsroom about the appropriateness of publishing an image of anyone’s loved one who may be on the brink of death. We’re only the messenger, but we’re not sure whether we should ever be the messenger of death. We encourage our community to tell us how you feel about this important question – and we thank you for staying so strongly connected to us.

Commentery

Clinton, Godzilla and the GOP

Republican panic at the prospect of facing Hillary Clinton in the 2016 presidential race has suddenly reached Godzilla-nearing-Tokyo proportions.

Columnist Eugene Robinson

The election is more than two years away, and Clinton hasn’t even decided whether to run. But none of this seems to matter to the GOP strategists who are launching the whole arsenal at her – smears, innuendo, false charges. Already, they’ve moved beyond distorting her record to simply making stuff up. Clinton has seen it all before. And I mean all. Anyone who thinks she’ll be rattled or intimidated hasn’t been paying attention the past few decades. If anything, Republicans are succeeding in raising Clinton’s profile and perhaps making her a more sympathetic figure. This was certainly the impact of Karl Rove’s smarmy and unfounded recent speculation about her health.

In December 2012, Clinton, ill with a virus, fell in her home and suffered a concussion, spent three days in the hospital, wore corrective glasses briefly for double vision – meanwhile going back to work as secretary of state – and made what to all appearances was a full recovery. Rove grossly inflated the episode to “30 days in the hospital” and “traumatic brain injury.” Appearing later on Fox News, he insisted that Clinton’s health “is going to be an issue.”

The Clinton camp responded that “there are no words for this level of lying” and gave assurances that Clinton is in perfect health.

Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., an all-but-announced candidate for the GOP nomination, was even less subtle, claiming that Clinton’s term at the State Department was characterized by “massive failures.” He mentioned her inability to get Russian President Vladimir Putin to behave like a model citizen -- something that no secretary of state has managed to do. Oh, and he mentioned Benghazi. Benghazi, Benghazi, Benghazi ... Get used to that name because you’ll hear it a zillion times if Clinton runs. We’ve seen from her appearances before Congress, however, that she answers questions about the tragedy forcefully and well. I wouldn’t bet my political future on the dubious prospect that she’ll meekly go away if the Benghazi chant is raised to a din.

Even more far-fetched is the suggestion that Boko Haram might not have kidnapped those nearly 300 Nigerian schoolgirls if Clinton had pushed – against the advice of diplomats, experts and the Nigerian government – to designate the group as a terrorist organization. There is no basis for this unlikely notion. Boko Haram has been on the terrorist list since November, and it didn’t stop them.

If she runs, this won’t be Clinton’s first rodeo. It won’t be the first time that bitter opponents spun a false history out of whole cloth and tried

Finding your Arch

The St. Louis Gateway Arch is the city’s signature monument. It defines the city’s place in American history and for nearly half a century has stood as one of the nation’s architectural points of pride and engineering ingenuity as described in the book, “The Gateway Arch: A Biography” by Tracy Campbell. But few of the hundreds of thousands of tourists who swarm the Arch each year understand the monument’s complicated history. Originally conceived by civic leaders in the early 1930s, it ran into opposition from residents who wondered if it would make more sense to spend the money instead on projects that had a more direct impact on the lives of the taxpayers.

Its completion more than 40 years ago was the culmination of collaboration of politicians, the federal government and civic leaders who worked together with land owners, real estate agents and bankers to bring the project to fruition..

Today, the Gateway Arch is revered for the way it transforms a simple curve into an awe-inspiring experience of place. The genius of the Arch is that it is both traditional and modern, disarmingly simple and extraordinarily complex, unadorned yet elegant.

At 630 feet high, it is the nation’s tallest monument. Yes, taller than the Washington

Monument and the Statue of Liberty. The bend in the Arch and its flexibility are a testament to the challenges we face in life, both personally and professionally. Along the way, you will face adversity, some big, some small. You will bend, but never break.

In some respects, the Arch is a parable about life. It gives direction, meaning and purpose to individuals on the American journey. Every person needs a purpose, meaning and sense of direction. We all need an arch, a way post that speaks to who we are. We need an arch that provides strengths in times of adversity, an arch to serve as a catalyst that inspires confidence in the midst of doubt.

So how do you find your arch?

The future belongs to those who finish what they start. Tomorrow will be owned by those who choose to be flexible and are unfazed by insurmountable challenges in life and at work.

So, today I challenge each and every one of you to envision yourself inside the Arch and to imagine riding that tiny, rickety car to the top. On your way to the top, you ought to prepare yourself for a long ride.

When you finally arrive at your destination, you will feel the pressure – structure swaying even so slightly from side to side, battered by the winds and the elements – yet be assured that it will never fall. You will be standing stronger, tested and better prepared to take on even more challenges. I close with 10 codes to live by.

Letters to the editor

Support SLU students

The hate crime incidents at Saint Louis University are of great concern to me. Hate crimes are an indicator of the decay of the morals of members of the community in which they occur. Not addressed, this spirit hate of could spread like wildfire.

to pin it on her. The paranoid fantasy over Vince Foster’s suicide comes to mind.

The reason for all this panic is obvious: Republicans fear that if Clinton runs, she’ll win.

Polls consistently show her beating all hypothetical GOP opponents, both nationally and in key swing states. New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie was competitive, for a time, but the George Washington Bridge scandal has sent his numbers south. Jeb Bush, if he decided to run – and managed to win the nomination – might have the kind of crossover appeal that would give Clinton trouble. But at present, none of the other frequently cited contenders seems much of a threat.

Nothing is guaranteed, of course. You will recall that Clinton was supposed to steamroll her way to the 2008 Democratic nomination, only to have the junior senator from Illinois get in the way. In 2016 she might well face a challenge from the party’s activist left.

If Clinton should get the nomination, her Republican opponent would be no pushover. But the possibility of electing the first woman as president would likely stoke the enthusiasm of Democratic voters to the point where the party’s structural advantages –overwhelming support among minorities and women – came into play.

Hence all the premature mudslinging, which reeks of desperation. Republicans hear the sound in the distance. They feel it in their bones. Stomp. Stomp. Stomp

The courageous Black Students Alliance at SLU needs your help! This could be an excellent joint project to show the world that violations of social justice, racism and discrimination will not be tolerated on campuses in the St. Louis metropolitan area. Please write to offer your assistance: slublackalumniassociation@ gmail.com.

Velma Bailey, St. Louis

ADL commends Rams

The ADL commends the St. Louis Rams for acknowledging Michael Sam’s talent regardless of his status as an openly gay athlete. The Rams, who received Workplace Diversity Award in 2006, already maintain a corporate record committed to diversity in goals and performance measures; recruiting, retaining and advancing diverse staff; offering a family friendly workplace; and philanthropy in the St. Louis region in disadvantaged communities. While there is much discrimination yet to challenge on behalf of the LGBT community in the U.S., we keep moving forward with optimism. Earlier this year basketball player Jason Collins and the Brooklyn Nets forged ahead; the capacity of American sports teams and players to blaze the trail can and must continue.

Karen Aroesty, regional director, Anti-Defamation League, St. Louis

Medicaid expansion fight

The fight is not over. We will continue to have faith. We will pray for legislators that their hearts would soften. This

Remember the difference between success and failure is really a matter of time. Remember there is something about failing and coming back to it that burns character into a person’s soul and breeds confidence without arrogance and transforms an individual’s life for the rest of one’s life.

Don’t be preoccupied with doing things right. Pay more attention to doing the right thing.

Prepare a personal mission statement, then use it as a compass to navigate the journey for the rest of your life. Learn how to manage your time, because it’s the only thing that you can control.

Strive to be predictable. Learn from the mistakes of vothers because you can’t live long enough to make them all yourself.

Remember, the sky is not necessarily the limit.

Don’t forget, you cannot cover all the bases yourself, learn to share the responsibility.

Maturity has more to do with what type of experience you’ve had and what you’ve learned from them and less to do with how many birthdays you’ve celebrated.

We were all born originals, but we often spend the rest of our life trying to be copies –stay originals!

Edited from remarks made at Webster University’s 2014 Graduate Commencement Ceremony.

Akande is dean of Webster’s George Herbert Walker School of Business & Technology.

summer, while our legislators are not in session, hundreds of our citizens will lose their lives due to lawmakers’ inaction on Medicaid expansion. While the legislature is resting on vacation, the poorest in Missouri will be suffering.

Rev. Emmett Baker, St. Louis

Heartless lawmakers

One mega millionaire, Rex Sinquefield, buys a hearing, and our legislators pass a tax cut. Thousands of poor, uninsured citizens come to Jefferson City to speak for Medicaid expansion, and our legislators are deaf. Sadly, the motto on the great seal of our state about the welfare of the people being the highest law has been similarly ignored by deaf, heartless lawmakers. Shame on them! I hope their area hospitals don’t go broke and close.

Rev. Gerald J. Kleba St. Louis

Democracy-protecting decisions

Brown v. Board of Education is one of the most important rulings in the history of the United States Supreme Court, not just for its impact on civil rights and education but for illustrating the importance of an independent judicial branch.

The federal judiciary is uniquely positioned to protect the rights of political minorities. It recognizes that the Constitution’s liberty and equality guarantees apply to everyone. Lifetime appointments for our federal judges allow federal courts to enforce the law even when it might not be popular or conflict with majority sentiment.

As we honor Brown v. Board, we have to pause to remember that challenges remain. Today, the struggle continues to integrate our nation’s schools and provide equal access to quality education. Today, we continue to need to protect our courts’ ability to deliver democracy-

protecting decisions, even when such decisions might be unpopular.

Bert Brandenburg, executive director, Justice at Stake, Washington, D.C.

Guest Columnist Benjamin Ola. Akande

Competitive spellers

for a coveted spot in the final round,” said Principal Kim Jones-Riley.

Salute to Women in Leadership Gala

In June, the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis is poised to honor distinguished women in leadership on the local and national levels. The 11th Annual Salute to Women in Leadership Gala will take place at the Renaissance Grand Hotel on June 20 with a black-tie reception beginning at 5:30 p.m.

The Salute to Women in Leadership Gala was created nearly 11 years ago by Michael P. McMillan, president and CEO of the Urban League, when he served as chairman of board of the St. Louis Community Empowerment Foundation. To date, nearly 100 women across various professions have received this honor. Women to be honored at this year’s festivities include: Anna Maria Horsford, Judge Glenda A. Hatchett, Kathleen Mazzarella, Shannon Bagley, Esther Haywood, Tishaura Jones, Nicole ColbertBotchway, Darlene Davis, Barbara Washington, Ozella Foster-Robinson, Rev. Dr. Doris Graham, Trish Muyco-Tobin, Melanie Chambers, Donna Knight, Christi M. Griffin and Brittany N. Packnett. To purchase tickets, call 314-615-3668.

Summer school changes in Hazelwood

Due to on-going construction to finish renovations at Central High and to reduce distractions to the learning environment, Hazelwood School District is relocating summer school for Central High.

Central High summer school will be held at North Middle School, 4420 Vaile Avenue, Florissant, MO 63034.

Central Middle and North Middle summer school will be held at Central Middle School, 13450 Old Jamestown Road, Florissant, MO 63033.

All other elementary and middle school summer classes will be held at their previously announced locations.

For more information, visit http://www.hazelwoodschools.org/ StudentsAndParents/summerschool/Pages/default.aspx

Tax credits granted for ‘Youth Opportunities’

The Missouri Department of Economic Development recent approved six St. Louis not-for-profit organizations for tax credits under the Youth Opportunities Program.

Cardinal Glennon Children’s Medical Center was approved for $250,000, Epworth Children & Family Services, Inc. was approved for $249,857, UrbanFuture was approved for $209,245, Children’s Home Society of MO was approved for $150,000, St. Louis Art Works was approved for $35,000 and Guardian Angel Settlement Association was approved for $25,000

The program provides tax credits to organizations administering positive youth development or crime prevention projects. For more information, visit http://ded.mo.gov/BCS%20Programs/BCSProgramDetails. aspx?BCSProgramID=85.

Jobs, not jails

By Christi Griffin For The St. Louis American

The day Northwest Academy of Law hosted its annual Peace Summit, the apparent homicide of an inmate at the U.S. penitentiary in Leavenworth, Kansas, was reported. The victim was found unresponsive in his cell just one day after arriving at the prison. He died days later at a hospital in Kansas City.

Jeremy Nemerov, who was sentenced to 6 ½ years for conspiracy to possess pseudoephedrine with intent to manufacture methamphetamine, was the son of the late Howard Nemerov, a former U.S. poet laureate who was also a distinguished professor at Washington University. He was white and entitled to all the rights and privileges pertaining thereto. But when it comes to profiteering and prisons, white privilege only gets you so much.

Nemerov’s death warns us that no one is safe from a burgeoning system that would rather make money incarcerating its own than exhibit standards of ethics or deliver care for those in need.

No doubt, we’re all tired of crime. But until we grow tired of doing the same thing and getting the same results, we’ll continue to have more crime. We’ll continue to expend our scant public revenues to expand its jails and prisons, and we’ll continue to get the same results.

Statistics unequivocally prove that we cannot incarcerate ourselves to safety. If we could we’d be safer in our homes, our schools and on our streets today than we were before the rates of incarceration in the U.S. increased from 330,000 in the 1960s to 2.3 million today. If we could, the $70 billion spent each year to house our sons and daughters in cages would decrease, rather than grow.

In St. Louis, as across the country, there’s talk of expanding our jail and prosecuting more crimes. Addressing overcrowded jails by providing more jobs or prosecuting fewer non-violent and victimless crimes is seldom considered.

It makes no sense that we continue to allow our legislators to spend our hard-earned money to expand prisons and jails and find more ways to line the pockets of profiteers. We condone unfettered corporate crime while over-incarcerating those in need of no more than meaningful jobs, social parity or drug or mental health treatment.

If our tax dollars are going to be spent to reduce crime, they should be spent on effective results. They should be spent to build up the community and to enhance the talents and intellect of those most at risk of offending. Whether $70,000 or $70 billion, that’s a lot to spend on something that doesn’t work. If we’re going to spend tax dollars to reduce crime, we need jobs not jails.

Christi Griffin is founder and president of The Ethics Project.

Christi Griffin

Students from James Avant Elementary School held their second annual Spelling Bee competition on May 9 at James Avant, 1915 N. 55th St. in East St. Louis. “Many students studied hard, overcame nerves and competed

MORRIS

Continued from A1

And I feel this calling, this tug to change the direction of our international church.

The American: Change the direction in what way?

Rev. Morris: In a way that is more friendly to the new millennium. Some of our interpretations of scripture are in need of some finessing.

The American: What change “more friendly to the new millennium” would you make?

Rev. Morris: How we view people who are of different sexual preferences and how we view people who don’t look like us. CME is historically an African-American church and not always terribly friendly to people who don’t look like us. From my window, that is not Christ-like.

The American: And your attempts to move Lane in this direction were poorly received?

Rev. Morris: Absolutely. There were times people who did not look like me came into Lane and people would ask them the ridiculous question, “Why are you here?”

The American: What interpretations of scripture need finessing?

Rev. Morris: We need to take a different look at homosexuality as a sin that is unforgivable. Christ was about love and compassion for all humanity. He never stopped and asked someone, “Are you homosexual?” That word never came out of his mouth. The church needs to start meeting people where they are. We need to show the love of Christ and the love of God, rather than the wrath of God.

The American: So what’s your next move in trying to change the direction of the church?

Rev. Morris: I am going to Baltimore on the 27th of June for the CME General Conference. The issue of homosexuality will be one that will be before our church to

n “A couple of homosexual students looked at me and said, ‘Am

I not God’s child too?’ That was my epiphany.”

– Rev. James T. Morris

deal with, and the delegates will then have a chance to decide whether they like my progressive views. They will vote for me to become a bishop – or not vote for me.

The American: If they’re with you, you become a bishop. If they’re against you, then what?

Rev. Morris: I have several options, several offers on the table. I’ve been in the academy before, at St. Paul School of Theology in Kansas City, and

some other denominations have said they would like me to serve.

The American: Given your generation, it must have been a journey for you in your thinking about homosexuality.

Rev. Morris: Working at the St. Paul School of Theology (1993-5) helped me to get there. It’s a United Methodist seminary. As director of student development, I was hit in the face by the idea of homosexuality and the

NORMANDY

Continued from A1

community.”

Before the board voted, Herschend said that many unanswered questions remain.

“This is all going to happen through people,” he said. “It’s not going to happen through paper.”

Under the plan, which is based largely on the work done by a transition task force appointed by Nicastro, the current Normandy board would be replaced by a Joint Executive Governing Board appointed by the state board. It would “be authorized to retain and exercise all authority granted to the Normandy Board of Education and to take actions necessary for the operation of the Normandy Schools Collaborative subject to the advice and consent of the State Board of Education.”

It is not clear whether any members of the current elected board would be named to the new board or how large it would be.

The plan for the new structure comes at the end of a tumultuous year for Normandy and for Riverview Gardens, which is also unaccredited.

After the Missouri Supreme Court unanimously upheld the state’s transfer law last June, about 2,200 students decided to take advantage of the transfer option and enrolled in accredited districts in neighboring areas.

Many returned, but the financial toll on Normandy, which had to pay for tuition and in some cases transportation, drained its treasury. It had to get emergency funds from the state to make it to the end of the current school year.

ministry. Students wanted to have gay and lesbian clubs on campus, and I had to wrestle with my views personally and wrestle with scripture. I had a contingent of students challenge me as to my views on homosexuality. A couple of homosexual students looked at me and said, “Am I not God’s child too?” That was my epiphany.

The American: Do you think St. Louis, and the black community here particularly, needs to deal with this issue?

Rev. Morris: Absolutely. Many musicians in our churches are homosexual. It’s all right to be a musician, but it seems like they don’t want them to be anything else. They want them to be quiet. That’s unacceptable.

The American: You’re really telling it like it is.

Rev. Morris: I tell people the truth, that’s my problem. That’s been my problem in St. Louis.

The American: I’ve noticed many black people in St. Louis

“The

only thing that’s going to impact our student achievement is a difference in how we instruct, how we teach, how we learn.”

– Normandy Superintendent Ty McNichols

“The failure is Missouri’s, not just that of a struggling community.”

– Missouri education commissioner Chris Nicastro

At the same time the state board authorized Nicastro to name the transition task force to study the district’s future, it put control of Normandy’s finances under control of the state. Action taken by the board would fall under an existing state law giving it additional latitude to deal with poorly performing school districts.

The broad reach of the education bill, taking in school transfers and other issues, could affect the process if Nixon decides to sign it. The governor has expressed strong reservations about one provision, which would let students transfer to nonsectarian private schools with their tuition paid by tax money.

One part of the bill would

reject gay rights as a civil rights issue.

Rev. Morris: I see it as a civil rights issue. There were times when white America said slavery was God’s design for the black man. They cited the curse of Ham. So if we want to say there is no Hamidic curse on black people, then why is there a gay curse? For me there is no difference.

One scripture cited against homosexuality is 1 Corinthians 6:9-10. It talks about the wicked who will not inherit the kingdom of God and lists the sexually immoral, idolaters, adulterers and homosexuals. So if we want to call being gay a sin that excludes you from the church, what about adulterers? God knows what we’d do with the church if we threw all the adulterers out of the pulpit.

A special tribute dinner to honor Rev. Morris will be held at the Westport Sheraton Chalet Hotel on Saturday, May 31. Tickets are $100. To order tickets, call 314-533-0534.

bar the state board from lapsing Normandy for financial reasons, but a spokeswoman for DESE said the reason given for the recommendation was academic, not financial. That history of poor academic achievement was reviewed before the board voted on the recommendation for the new structure.

Normandy has not been fully accredited since the state began its Missouri School Improvement Plan, which is now in its fifth version. Last year, the first year of MSIP5, Normandy achieved just 15.5 points out of possible 140, on a yardstick that includes student test scores and other measures. That translates to a score of 11.1 percent; districts need to achieve 50 percent or more to get even provisional accreditation.

Nicastro said the district would not have enough money to operate after June 30, so allowing the current board to run the district or putting a special administrative board in place were not possible.

Nor, she said, should the board divide up Normandy and attach parts of it to neighboring districts, because those districts, like Jennings and University City, already are in jeopardy of sinking into unaccredited territory.

Though the room was packed with Normandy supporters, they sat silent as the vote proceeded. Herschend had admonished them as the afternoon session began that the format of the board’s meetings does not allow for public comment.

After the meeting, Normandy Superintendent Ty McNichols said he had not been given advance notice of the recommendation to lapse the district, just as he not known in advance when the board decided to take over the district’s finances. He said that because all district contracts will be void as of the end of June, he wasn’t even sure whether he would be continuing as superintendent. Nicastro told reporters that she planned to meet with him and his staff next week.

“The only thing that’s going to impact our student achievement is a difference in how we instruct, how we teach, how we learn,” McNichols said, “and I truly believe that our reformation plan that we developed is the way to make that happen.”

Nicastro said she thinks the reformation plan has good points but it needs to be refined. At a news conference after the meeting, Nicastro addressed students in the district.

“I think the first thing we need to offer is hope,” she said. “And that’s really what I would hope they got from today’s actions, is hope that we are on their side, that we are standing with them, in an effort to try to provide quality school choices in the Normandy school district for families and children.”

SCOTT

Continued from A1 and her novel “Hold Me in Contempt.”

The duo was in rare form with Williams, chiming in as she presented her popular “Hot Topics” segment live for Majic listeners.

Then, an hour after one of their better shows since moving back to the morning time slot, Scott was fired by Clear Channel.

Even in the “here today, gone today” atmosphere of the radio industry, the fact that Scott was let go sent shock waves among listeners and insiders within the St. Louis radio market.

He had more than 25 years under his belt as an on air personality with Majic – mostly as part of morning show crews.

In recent years, as stations opted for nationally syndicated morning shows, Scott and Holland found themselves slated in the afternoon.

In February, Clear Channel decided to nix “The Steve Harvey Morning Show” and return to local radio in the morning with Tony and Tammie.

not happy either. But unlike Scott, they were talking. By 4 p.m. the web story had received more than 100 Shares on The St. Louis American Facebook page and dozens of retweets and comments to @ stlamerican.com. At press time, more than 80,000 people had seen the item through Facebook alone.

The fallout from video footage leaked by TMZ that featured Solange Knowles allegedly attacking her brotherin-law Jay Z as Beyoncé stood by was suddenly the furthest thing on the minds of local listeners.

“This is bigger than any Jay or Bey news,” Tiff Scott (no relation to Tony) tweeted. “This hits home. We love Tony Scott.”

“This is sad news! Uncle @tonyscottmedia has been my radio inspiration most of my life,” Deanna Harris said via Twitter. “STL radio will NEVER be the same.”

“Well, if Uncle Tony ain’t there ... I ain’t there,” Brian Burton said through Facebook. “Time to explore some other frequencies.”

Scott was the last of the Majic 108 FM old guard that held things down on DeBaliviere –before local radio stations became elements of huge corporate media conglomerates.

He had been with the KMJM brand through sales, mergers and moving down the dial to its current frequency of 100.3.

Waiting for station owner Clear Channel to confirm and issue a statement on Scott’s departure, it would be 3:30 p.m. on Friday before news broke via stlamerican.com.

Five days later, The American is still waiting on a statement from Clear Channel. Scott, however, took to his Twitter page with a brief, tart comment.

“Not happy. Not allowed to talk about it. Shouldn’t be saying this,” Scott tweeted. His fans and listeners were

The story went viral, becoming the most-read item of the past two months in a few short hours.

The web item received nearly 30,000 views since initially appearing on the site – in addition to the nearly 90,000 reached through Facebook and 150 clicks on Twitter.

Farewell to ‘Uncle Tony’

The 168 comments made about Scott’s dismissal on The American’s Facebook page show that many people thought of him as more than just a radio personality.

“I grew up listening to Tony Scott,” Erica Patillo said via Facebook. “Majic 100.3 won’t be the same without him.”

The general consensus: Tony was family.

“This is sad news! Uncle @ tonyscottmedia has been my radio inspiration most of my life,” Deanna Harris told The American via Twitter. “STL radio will NEVER be the same.”

He was often referred to as “Uncle Tony” by listeners –and even called himself that.

“Well, if Uncle Tony ain’t there ... I ain’t there,” Brian Burton said through Facebook. “Time to explore some other frequencies.”

Some listeners threatened to boycott Clear Channel Radio. Others urged a petition.

“Some changes just should not happen without proper warning,” Chiquita Simpson said through Facebook. There was even a short-lived #bringbackTonyScott hashtag. What’s next for Majic?

Scott’s former partner, Tammie

Holland, is holding down mornings on Majic 100.3 FM in the meantime. There is no word on whether another co-host will be introduced or who that person would be. All anyone knows is the signature “Yeah, man …” –

that became as synonymous to Scott as his name – will no longer drag out across Clear Channel’s airwaves.

According to his Twitter and Facebook posts, Scott is offering social media services for hire at the moment.

than 25 years under his belt as an on air personality with

In the meantime, the community wishes him the best.

“When one door closes, Patillo said, “God always opens up another one.”

Tony Scott, seen here with his morning co-host Tammie Holland, had more

Majic – mostly as part of morning show crews.

Photo by Lawrence Bryant

Rx Outreach celebrates Paz

Express Scripts CEO thanked

by

spinoff non-profit at first gala

By Sandra Jordan Of The St. Louis American

Rx Outreach has saved patients more than $220 million in prescription costs in the few years since then Express Scripts executive vice president Michael Holmes founded the company, which provides affordable generic prescription medication to those who need it most.

On Saturday, May 10, Rx Outreach honored the Express Scripts CEO who gave Holmes the approval to create the spinoff company. George Paz, chairman and CEO of Express Scripts, received the Champion for Health Award.

“Ninety percent of all transactions in the medical field are prescriptions, yet it represents about 15 percent of the costs. But it has the longest,

biggest impact on overall, longterm health of our society,” Paz told the audience.

“Keeping people adherent to their drug regimen keeps them out the hospital, keeps them safe and helps them grow. It’s incredibly important that we do that.”

Pas said people without health insurance pay the highest amount for prescriptions at drug stores, so Express Scripts developed Rx Outreach to help people with medications through their tough times. The problem was that it was administered within a for-profit company.

“We were having trouble with Rx Outreach reaching its ultimate mission,” Paz said.

Then Holmes presented Paz with a business plan that showed how much better Rx Outreach would perform if

it were not a part of Express Scripts. It was founded as a separate entity in 2010 with Holmes as its president. Since then, Rx Outreach has extended its reach, thanks largely to

‘I am not afraid’

Kirkwood youth responds to racist taunt

By Dale Singer Of St. Louis Public Radio

When Antona Smith saw her 12-year-old daughter, Kiden, walk into Kaldi’s in Kirkwood one afternoon last month, she knew something was wrong. Kiden – pronounced Keeden – told her mother, once she was ready to talk about it, and she wrote a letter designed to let all of Kirkwood know. While walking home on April 24 from Nipher Middle School along South Kirkwood Road, she wrote, “I saw a silver car of teenage boys laughing. I didn’t think much of it until 10 minutes later, the same car

was driving by me and the boy in the passenger seat rolled down the window and yelled, ‘YOU’RE A MONKEY,’ and laughed as they drove away.”

In Kirkwood, which has had its share of racially tinged incidents in recent years, such blatant harassment can’t be dismissed as a teenage prank,

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donations from drug makers.

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more affordable to low-income people,” Holmes said. He praised Paz for his corporate and civic leadership, apart from his role in founding Rx Outreach.

Kiden’s mother said.

“What happened to my daughter is reflective of Kirkwood when I moved here in 2008, as well as Kirkwood now,” Smith said. “It is subtle. It is ostracizing in a way. And it is cowardly, in other ways.”

Or, as Kiden put it in an interview, “I wasn’t afraid. I was just really shocked that it happened. And I was disappointed.”

Authorities say a suspect who is not a student in the Kirkwood schools has been identified.

As a sixth-grader at Nipher, serving on the student council and playing the violin, Kiden has had a life like that of most middle schoolers. After Kiden had time to reflect on the incident, her mother urged her to write it down.

“This obviously needs to be dealt with and I’ve heard other people have had experiences like this but worse here in Kirkwood. The schools … think this is bullying but it is way different and it is illegal. This is racial harassment,” Kiden wrote.

“If they thought they had the

right to do that and think that would lower my self-esteem and make them stronger, they are really, really wrong. I just proved to them that I am much more stronger ... I am stronger because I was being the better person and not reacting. I walked straight to my mom and told her, called my dad and the next day, filed a police report with Officer Bonner. I also wrote this letter because fear is a weapon and I am not afraid.”

The response the family received, Smith said, was heartening. School personnel, from Superintendent Tom Williams on down to staff members at Nipher, expressed disappointment and outrage at what happened and admiration for Kiden for how she handled it and put it into words.

Chris Raeker, the school district’s assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction, said she was “absolutely sick at heart that one of our students would have to hear this in downtown Kirkwood.”

And, Raeker said, any issues in Kirkwood have to be viewed in a larger context.

“His decision to put Express Scripts’ headquarters on the UMSL campus – that was no accident,” Holmes said. “He wanted an anchor North County, creating thousands of jobs with excellent benefits for all the people.”

Despite millions of people being newly covered by health insurance under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, Holmes said the need for assistance with affordable medication remains.

“During the first quarter of this year, we dispensed over 101,000 prescriptions to 51,000 patients and we saved them over $20 million,” Holmes told the audience. “While I look forward to the day that Rx Outreach may not be needed, it appears that day is a long way off. We still have much work to do to help those people who cannot afford their medications.”

Guests at the gala bid on silent auction items and made donations at their tables to help Rx Outreach continue its work. Highest donors received gold, silver and bronze medals. The organization raised $240,000 at its first fundraising gala. Rx Outreach offers more than 500 medications to eligible persons. For more information, go to www. rxoutreach.org.

For more information, please email or call Jessica Perkins at

“Kirkwood is a part of St. Louis,” she said, “and St. Louis is a part of society. Race doesn’t go away. The conversation has to be about appreciating one another and recognizing that people hurt one another through their words and actions.” Antona Smith said that such reaction has been helpful in the wake of the taunt against Kiden. “They had an immediate, authentic and real reaction to it,” she said. “I did appreciate that.”

Still, Smith said, the incident confirmed to her the general atmosphere she has experienced since moving to Kirkwood. During an unsuccessful run for the Kirkwood School Board earlier this year, Smith said she was sometimes portrayed as “the angry black woman.”

“Often, I am the only black person at the coffee shop. I’m the only black person in downtown Kirkwood,” she said. “There are subtle little things … You can just tell by their looks, like, ‘What’s she doing here?’” Smith hopes that Kirkwood schools and other groups use the incident as a lesson that leads to action.

“I’m probably afraid a little bit for her innocence,” she said of her daughter. “Some of her childhood was snatched when they did that.”

Edited for length and reprinted with permission from news.stlpublicradio.org.

Antona Smith with her 12-year-old daughter, Kiden.

Photo by Dale Singer / St. Louis Public Radio

Express Scripts CEO George Paz accepted the Champion for Health Award from Rx Outreach President Michael Holmes at Rx Outreach’s first gala on May 10 at Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark. Photo by Wiley Price

Nixon dodges showdown on Normandy Schools

In an interview she gave for a St. Louis American editorial published on May 8, state Sen. Maria Chappelle-Nadal looked ahead to a face-off with Gov. Jay Nixon when the Missouri Legislature passed the education omnibus bill Senate Bill 493, as she predicted it would.

“If we pass a bill that saves Normandy Schools and the governor vetoes it,” ChappelleNadal said and The American printed in its editorial, “that will be the second time he turned his back on black children.”

The bill passed, as Chappelle-Nadal predicted it would. And as she predicted, Nixon stated once again his opposition to a provision of the bill that allows students who live in unaccredited school districts to transfer to an accredited non-sectarian private school in the same district, with tuition for the students paid out of the district’s locally generated funds.

At a press conference in the state capitol on Wednesday, May 14, Chappelle-Nadal repeated her challenge to the governor almost verbatim.

“If the governor vetoes this bill,” Chappelle-Nadal said, as reported by St. Louis Public Radio, “it will be the second time he has turned his back on poor black children. The last time he did that is when he was the attorney general and he decided to end desegregation.”

Nixon tried and failed to end St. Louis’ desegregation program – and paid for his attempt politically.

Asked for a reaction to Chappelle-Nadal’s statements, Nixon spokesman Scott Holste told St. Louis Public Radio: “I don’t see any need to comment on that.”

Nixon may have felt emboldened by the fact that there is no consensus among African Americans in the state Legislature concerning SB 493.

State Rep. Clem Smith, who like Chappelle-Nadal represents part of the Normandy School District, sided with Nixon in opposing the private transfer provision.

“Shifting taxpayer money intended for public schools to private schools will not improve public education and should not be a part of this discussion,” Smith said in a statement. “Lawmakers must focus on the issue at hand – fixing a broken student transfer law to provide financial certainty for affected school districts and a quality public education for all students.”

State Rep. Joshua Peters also sided with Nixon. “This is nothing but a voucher program to funnel public taxpayers dollars from our public schools into surrounding suburban districts and private schools,” Peters said in a statement.

State Rep. Michael Butler also released a statement opposing the bill, including a thinly veiled insult of his political enemy state Sen. Jamilah Nasheed, who supported the bill along with Chappelle-Nadal.

State Rep. Tommie Pierson who represents the unaccredited Riverview Gardens School

District, openly called for Nixon to veto the bill. “Senate Bill 493 does nothing to help the students of Normandy and Riverview Gardens and is the first step toward the privatization of public education in Missouri,” Pierson said in a statement.

However, as minority Democrats in the Missouri House, Smith, Peters, Butler and Pierson were bystanders on this legislation, which Chappelle-Nadal successfully navigated through a divisive political process.

Ironically, this racially charged piece of legislation landed on the governor’s desk on the eve of the 60th anniversary of the Brown v. Board of Education U.S. Supreme Court decision, outlawing racial segregation in U.S. schools.

“Brown v. Board of Education shifted the legal and moral compass of our nation,” President Barack Obama said in a proclamation on Friday. “It declared that education ‘must be made available to all on equal terms’ and demanded that America’s promise exclude no one.”

Education “available to all on equal terms” – tell that to the 4,000 students of the Normandy School District, whose education has been a political football in Jefferson City all session. Thanks to state legislation that allowed students from unaccredited districts, like Normandy, to transfer to accredited districts, with their home district paying for tuition and in some cases transportation, Normandy

Normandy Superintendent Ty McNichols posed with district officials and supporters on the first day of what would be the last year for the district.

Effective July 1, it becomes Normandy Schools Collaborative under state control.

Photo by Wiley Price

School District teetered on the brink of bankruptcy all legislative session. It was the threat of the district going bankrupt and being dissolved that had Chappelle-Nadal bargaining with the school choice faction among Missouri Republicans to pass the bill that many of her Democratic colleagues and Nixon ultimately found so distasteful.

In the end, she did not succeed in bargaining for a fair deal. The “tuition fix” in the bill she was able to get passed was so weak that even the Normandy school board balked in the end and urged Nixon to veto the bill. The Normandy board was disturbed by one provision in the bill that offered a carrot to receiving districts willing to take transfer students from unaccredited districts at less than full tuition – namely, that the test scores of these transfer students would not be counted in the receiving district’s overall test score tally for five years.

“Since reviewing the bill, we have serious concerns about our financial future as well as the education Normandy students will receive if their test scores are not counted for five years in the receiving districts that reduce their tuition rates,” a resolution unanimously passed by the seven-member board stated.

Nixon may have been savvy to wait to veto (or, improbably, sign) the bill until after Tuesday’s meeting of the state school board, because after that meeting, there could be no showdown over the Normandy School District. That is because

the Normandy School District no longer existed. The state board voted to:

• lapse the Normandy School District, effective June 30. All existing contracts with personnel and others will be terminated effective June 30.

• create the Normandy Schools Collaborative as a new local education agency, encompassing the Normandy School District footprint effective July 1.

• appoint a Joint Executive Governing Board to govern the Collaborative effective July 1, replacing the current elected board.

Same students, same low median family income, same poor overall academic performance that resulted in the previous version of the district being unaccredited, new appointed board. Gov. Nixon may have dodged a showdown over Normandy, but the battle to make a quality education available to these students “on equal terms” remains.

Primary battles good for inclusion

St. Louis County Executive Charlie A. Dooley released a statement on Wednesday that legislation introduced by Councilman Hazel Erby at Tuesday’s County Council meeting pertaining to minority inclusion is a “big step forward” for St. Louis County.

“Councilman Erby has been adamant about this legislation, and I am pleased

that we were able to work with her to get what I believe is a comprehensive set of bills that addresses key issues and challenges with minority and women inclusion,” Dooley said in the statement.

These bills would:

• officially establish the county Office of Diversity Programs

• set procurement guidelines for construction services on contracts valued at $1 million and above

• set workforce guidelines of 15 percent minority, 5 percent women and 10 percent St. Louis County residents on construction projects valued at $1 million above.

• establish guidelines for an apprenticeship program on construction contracts valued at over $2 million and lasting two construction cycles.

“I think these bills go a long way in leveling the playing field for minority and women owned businesses and workforce inclusion,” said Erby, who appears to be giving it a little extra on the council as she faces a primary challenge. Robert Horton, Diversity Programs manager, worked closely with Erby to craft the legislation. Horton was hired by Dooley in January to help shape the County’s inclusion programs.

Dooley also was goaded into newfound activism on minority inclusion by an initially spirited primary challenge for Councilman Steve Stenger, a South County Democrat. Stenger’s frequent opposition to Dooley’s administration has been covered closely by the Post-Dispatch, and he touted an early poll that showed him within breathing distance of Dooley. Dooley’s more recent poll had many local political professionals convinced Stenger will not have the name recognition to beat Dooley in August. That is, unless the “swirling rumors” of Dooley’s corruption that the Post has reported as front page news (without one named source) finally turn out to be true. So far, they are just that – swirling rumors.

‘Bring Back Our Girls’

Local rally raises awareness about Nigerian mass kidnapping

By Bridjes O’Neil

Of The St. Louis American

Over a month has passed since 276 Nigerian schoolgirls were abducted by heavily armed members of the terrorist group Boko Haram.

“What happened to those young girls is a tragedy,”

Patricia Washington, director of communications for St. Louis County, said at the “Bring Back Our Girls” Peace Rally. “This global response is a travesty.” At the outset, the abduction gained international attention.

Rally organizer Alice Prince fears that public interest has waned and organized the rally to raise awareness.

Prince, members of Egbe Omo Yoruba of Greater St. Louis, and concerned citizens marched in support of the abducted girls Friday outside of Central Library in downtown St. Louis.

St. Louis Treasurer Tishaura Jones, who attended the rally, recently tweeted a photo of herself via Twitter holding a “Bring Back Our Girls” sign.

First Lady Michelle Obama tweeted a similar photo of herself as well.

Washington, representing County Executive Charlie Dooley, warned that what happened in Nigeria could happen anywhere, adding that women are oppressed and attacked every day. No one should be robbed of an opportunity to contribute to society by obtaining an education because “we all pay the price,” she said.

“They are not educated, and they hate education,” Ade Adegboye, member of Egbe Omo Yoruba of Greater St. Louis, said of Boko Haram.

Preaching Mary Meachum

St. Louis Alderwoman Dionne Flowers spoke during Wednesday’s announcement of the Mary Meachum Freedom Crossing Celebration that will take place October 4 on the banks of the Mississippi River at 28 E. Prairie St. in her 2nd Ward. At right is 4th Ward Alderman Samuel Moore and behind him is Better Family Life VP of Community Outreach James Clark. Wednesday was the 159th anniversary of the event. On May 21, 1855, nine slaves led by Mary Meachum, a free woman of color, escaped from this location on the riverfront in North St. Louis to the free state of Illinois. In 2001, the Mary Meachum Freedom Crossing was dedicated as Missouri’s first national Underground Railroad site by the National Park Service.

“Boko Haram” translates to “Western education is forbidden.”

“Knowledge is power,” Washington said. “One of the most dangerous weapons is an educated woman.”

Washington said she has talked with Dooley about expanding the dialogue to include safeguarding “ourselves from the atrocities right here,” she said.

“How do we stop those things that are keeping us locked down and oppressed – and keeping women from reaching their full potential right here?” she said. Pastor Olufemi Akano of Jesus House St. Louis, under the Redeemed Christian Church of God, led the crowd in prayer. Akano is head of the Midwest Christian Association of Nigeria-Americans (CANA).

In March, CANA national president Dr. James Fadele visited Jesus House St. Louis to speak about Boko Haram’s atrocities.

“They were going into churches killing people,” said Karen Walker-Wright, a member of Jesus House, who attended the rally. “That’s Satan himself.”

She said Boko Haram will reap what they sow. “They are sowing death,” Walker-Wright said, “so they need to reap it.”

Adegboye said Boko Haram is a terrorist organization. Most Nigerians, Adegboye said, are hard-working, people who were raised by their parents to value education.

In his closing remarks, Egbe Omo Yoruba of Greater St. Louis member Michael Okpara demanded that the girls be released.

“This is what a global village is all about when evil rears its ugly head anywhere in the world against humanity,” Okpara said. “Your presence sends a powerful message to those terrorists in Nigeria that the people in St. Louis, and in the United States, will not negotiate with terrorists.”

Free summer meals in Ferg-Flor

Eight sites in the FergusonFlorissant School District will offer free breakfast and lunch to children and teens this summer.

The free summer meals are sponsored by the USDA’s Summer Food Service Program, which provides free meals to help children get the nutrition they need throughout the summer months when they are out of school. Children 18 and younger may receive free meals through the program. Meals are also available to persons with disabilities, over age 18, who participate in school programs for people who are mentally or physically disabled.

The following locations will

offer free summer meals on the dates indicated:

• Administration Center, 1005 Waterford Drive, Florissant – June 2-June 30, breakfast 8:10-8:30 a.m., lunch 10:4511:15a.m.

• McCluer South-Berkeley High School, 201 Brotherton Lane, Ferguson – May 29-June 26, breakfast 8:108:30 a.m., lunch 11:30-11:45 a.m.

• McCluer High School, 1896 S. New Florissant Road, Florissant – June 2-July 1, breakfast 7:10-7:30 a.m., lunch 10:50 a.m.-12 p.m.

• Ferguson Middle School, 701 January Avenue, Ferguson – June 2-July 1, breakfast 7:10-7:30 a.m., lunch 10:50 a.m.-12 p.m.

• Airport Elementary School, 8249 Airport Road, Berkeley – May 29-June 27, breakfast: 8:10-8:30 a.m., lunch 12-12:15 p.m.

• Commons Lane Elementary School, 2700 Derhake Road, Florissant – June 9-July 18, lunch 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m., snacks 3:30-3:45 p.m.

• Griffith Elementary School, 200 Day Drive, Ferguson –May 29-June 26, breakfast: 8:10-8:30 a.m., lunch 11-11:15 a.m. • Johnson-Wabash Elementary School, 685 January Ave, Ferguson – June 2-July 1, breakfast 8:108:30 a.m., lunch: 10:50 a.m.12 p.m.

Photo by Wiley Price

On Friday community activist Alice Prince organized a rally outside of Central Library in downtown St. Louis in support of 276 Nigerian schoolgirls who were abducted by heavily armed members of the terrorist group Boko Haram. Photo by Bridjes O’Neil

$Blingz was her destiny

A trip to Branson – and visit from the Spirit – guided local entrepreneur

By Sandra Jordan Of The

St. Louis American

Vanessa Robinson’s decision to open $Blingz Jewelry & More, located at 737 North Lindbergh Blvd. in Florissant, is the culmination of a spiritual journey.

Robinson’s family wanted to treat her daughter Charcey to a family vacation for her 25th birthday, either to the Ozarks or Branson.

“The Lord put in my spirit for me to go to Branson, as opposed to the Ozarks,” Robinson said.

Little did she know that excursion would eventually make her own career sparkle. “I had no desire to go to Branson at all,” she said. “I kept on trying to figure out why I wanted to go. Every time the Ozarks would come to my mind, it would be like, ‘No; Branson.’” In Branson, Robinson came across a dollar jewelry store. “As I was walking through there,” Robinson said, “the Spirit tells me, ‘I want you to

n “I just told the Lord, ‘If this was meant to be, You would touch my husband’s heart.’”

– Vanessa Robinson

open up one of these in Florissant.’” Robinson was already in business, owning Charkay’s Hair Salon. But she could not stop thinking about opening a jewelry store – it was her constant companion by day that was keeping her up at night.

“I would go to bed with the thought on my mind and I would wake up with it,” Robinson said. For her upcoming birthday, she

told her husband Charles she wanted to go back to Branson because she had so much fun previously. The real reason? It was time for some retail reconnaissance.

Robinson said, “The Lord told me another jewelry store was going to open up not far from [the other store]. He told me to go in there and spend two hours in there and look at how everything is set up.”

She did not know exactly where the new store was located. However, on the first day of Robinson’s return

From Wall Street to Clayton

By Bridjes O’Neil Of The St. Louis American

Gene R. Todd has joined Clayton-based First Bank as managing director for the Trust and Wealth Management division. Todd is also the bank’s affiliated broker at First Brokerage America, LLC. First Bank is one of the largest privately-owned banks in the country with $6.23 billion in assets and 130 locations in Missouri, Illinois, Florida and California. Todd said he is proud to work with a

“In

division.

“I basically followed

creating

Prior

After

Dean Baquet has been named executive editor of The New York Times, following the sudden ouster of Jill Abramson. Baquet, who was managing editor, is the first African American in The Times’ 161year history to be named executive editor. Abramson was the first woman executive editor. The 57-yearold Baquet won the Pulitzer for investigative journalism in 1988 as a reporter for the Chicago Tribune

Adrienne Bland is the new director of elementary education for the FergusonFlorissant School District. She will oversee the operation of the district’s 17 elementary schools and serve as a member of its academic leadership team. She has served the district since 2003 as principal of Combs Elementary, prior to being named acting director of elementary education during the 20132014 school year.

Norman Mann was recently promoted to the rank of captain in the St. Louis County Police Department. He has served in the North County and Central County precincts, Personnel Services Unit, Bureau of Professional Standards, Chief’s Office and Domestic Violence Unit. He received his master’s degree in Legal Studies from Webster University and his bachelor’s degree in Criminology from UM-St. Louis.

Rhonda Brandon is the new chairwoman of the YWCA Metro St. Louis Board of Directors. She is senior vice president and chief human resources officer for BJC Healthcare. Angela Adler and Louise Lawes are both vice-chairwomen, Ashley Kemper is secretary and Barbara Bentrup is treasurer. YWCA is dedicated “to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all.”

Raven M. Rogers graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, San Antonio, Texas as Air Force Reserve Airman. He is the son of Karen Rogers of St. Louis and a 1997 graduate of Roosevelt High School. The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies.

Lynette Atkinson is the 2014 recipient of the Outstanding Senior Woman Award from the Department of Health, Human Performance and Recreation in the Baylor School of Education. A St. Louis native, Atkinson made the Dean’s List every semester and competed on the Baylor track and field team. She served as a reading mentor at a local elementary school and track and field coach for children. On the move? Congratulations! Send your good professional news and a color headshot to cking@stlamerican. com.

Adrienne Bland

Norman Mann

Rhonda Brandon

Raven M. Rogers

Lynette Atkinson

Photo by Wiley Price

owner Vanessa Robinson (center) shows off

and necklaces with two of her many favorite

Shontay Gavin and Alexis Evans.

Keep a lid on vacation costs

By Jason Alderman

Summer vacation is right around the corner. I’m not a big believer in pre-planning every single detail – sometimes the best vacation moments are spontaneous. But unless your rich uncle is paying for the trip, you’ll need to do a certain amount of preparation or your budget will fly out the window. You do have a vacation budget, right? If not, here are a few suggestions for creating one and some cost-saving ideas to help keep expenses down: First, be realistic about what you can afford. If your vacation will take more than a month or two to pay off, you may want to scale back on this year’s trip and start setting aside money now for next year. When building a trip budget, try to anticipate all potential expenses. Consider things like:

• Airfare-related expenses. Include taxes and fees for items like changing flights, extra leg room, priority boarding, Wi-Fi access, meals, and checked, oversized or overweight baggage.

• Kayak.com, Airfarewatchdog.com and Travelnerd.com provide handy charts that compare various fees for popular airlines; however, always double-check the airline’s own posted rules before booking your flight.

• Transportation to and from the airport – at home and all travel locations.

• Car rentals. Factor in taxes, gas, fill-up penalties and insurance (check your auto insurance and credit card

policies to ensure you don’t pay for duplicate coverage).

• Hotel/lodging. Don’t forget taxes and other local fees, charges for phone/ Internet, room service, early check-in or departure, gratuities, etc.

• Hotel room rates often are based on double occupancy. Although kids usually can stay for free, many hotels charge extra for additional adults.

• Entertainment. Include meals and snacks, event admission and ticket-ordering charges, transit passes or taxis, sporting equipment rental, babysitters, and special clothing or accessory requirements (sunscreen, hiking boots, etc.)

• Throw in an extra 10 or 15 percent for unanticipated expenses – lost luggage, flat tire, etc.

Search for deals on flights, hotels and rental cars at comparison sites like Orbitz. com, Kayak.com, Priceline. com, Hotwire.com, Hotels. com and Travelzoo.com.

But beware: Before clicking “confirm,” make sure the final price matches the initial quote. I’ve seen fares jump $50 or more in just minutes or had the seat I was booking suddenly become unavailable.

A few additional tips:

• Follow and “like” airlines and ticketing sites on Facebook and Twitter. They’ll often share sales, discounts and promotional codes with their followers.

• If the airfare goes down after you’ve purchased your ticket, ask the airline or ticketing site to refund the difference – it couldn’t hurt to ask.

• Print and carry a copy

of your airline’s Contract of Carriage, which outlines your rights and the airline’s obligations should your flight be cancelled or delayed for reasons besides weather or other “acts of God.”

• Consider vacation rentals listed on sites like Airbnb.com, VRBO.com and HomeAway. com. You can often find cheaper accommodations with more space and amenities than hotels offer.

• Before booking a hotel room online, call the individual property to see if they can beat the company’s posted rate. Also ask for member discounts for organizations you belong to like AAA or AARP.

Practical Money Skills for Life, a free personal financial management program run by Visa Inc., has a handy webbased travel calculator that can help you estimate travel costs and rejigger them to meet your budget needs (www. practicalmoneyskills.com/ calculators). It’s also available as a free iPhone app, which you can download from iTunes.

Bottom line: A little preplanning now can ensure you don’t blow your whole budget on unexpected vacation expenses.

Jason Alderman directs Visa’s financial education programs. To Follow Jason Alderman on Twitter: www. twitter.com/PracticalMoney.

Business Briefs

Justine Petersen recognized as second largest micro lender in U.S.

Justine Petersen Housing and Redevelopment Corp was recognized by the U.S. Small Business Administration as the second largest micro lender in the United States. Justine Petersen originated 342 loans to small business owners during the most recent fiscal year, the majority of which were in Eastern Missouri.

The U.S. Small Business Administration provides funds to specially designated intermediary lenders like Justine Petersen, which are nonprofit community-based organizations with experience in lending as well as management and technical assistance. These intermediaries administer the microloan program for eligible borrowers as well as provide lending and business management assistance.

Regional Business Council accepting grant applications

The St. Louis Regional Business Council is accepting applications for the It’s Our Region Fund’s Small Change – Big Impact Grants. The goal of the grants is to support one-time capital improvement projects in the $1,000 to $10,000 range for non-profits, community agencies and municipalities. Applications will be accepted now and continue until June 20. To review the It’s Our Region Fund guidelines and complete an application, visit www. stlrbc.org/bigimpact. Winning groups will be announced by September 1.

Frontier Airlines announces non-stop service to Washington Dulles

Frontier Airlines will begin flying non-stop service between St. Louis and Washington Dulles International Airport on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday beginning Tuesday, September 8. Frontier is offering a 12-hour introductory fare sale as low as $15 each way for travel through November 19 at flyfrontier.com. This summer, Lambert airlines will operate nearly 250 daily departures to 62 non-stop destinations.

Two St. Louis business incubators given state tax credits

The Missouri Department of Economic Development recently approved eight Missouri small business incubators for a total of $500,000 in state tax credits under the Small Business Incubator Tax Credit program. The applicants have each committed $1 million in local investment.

This includes tax credits for two business incubators in St. Louis: Center for Emerging Technologies ($71,515) and Direct Impact Business Education Center ($71,114). The funds leveraged by these credits must be used for capital and other non-operating expenditures. All contributions must be received by the incubator between by December 31 in order to qualify for the 2014 tax credits.

SLPS SAB recognized for excellence in financial reporting

The St. Louis Public Schools Special Administrative Board received the Association of School Business Officials International’s Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting award for having met or exceeded the program’s standards for financial reporting and accountability. This national award recognizes excellence for a school district’s Comprehensive Annual Financial Report. SLPS was recognized for its report for the fiscal year ending in 2013. For more information on the award, please visit www. asbointl.org/COE.

Continued from B1

Co. as an investment banker focusing exclusively on leveraged buyout firms.

“That was when the tech and telecomm industries were really starting to take off. We did the biggest deals,” he said of Morgan Stanley & Co. “We financed the fastest-growing companies.”

He said he learned a lot during those eight years working alongside some of the best financiers like Joseph Perella, known as one of the greatest investment bankers of all time.

It all came crashing down near the end of 2000, he said, when the “tech and telecomm bubble burst,” followed by the recession and 9\11. He said people were getting laid off and deals dried up.

“New York went from being one of the greatest places and experiences that I’ve ever had to an absolute nightmare,” he said.

St. Louis, by contrast, is happy to have him.

“We are excited about Gene joining First Bank and leading our Trust and Wealth Management team,” said Terry McCarthy, president and CEO of First Banks, Inc., the parent of First Bank.

“He is an accomplished financial services executive with over 20 years of experience in multiple disciplines, including wealth management, brokerage and investment banking.”

Follow this reporter on Twitter: @BridjesONeil.

Claib’s Call

With Mike Claiborne

Michael Sam needs to take care of his football business

The distraction feared for the team that would draft

Michael Sam has made its arrival. This is uncharted territory, as there has never been an openly gay player drafted into the NFL, and we all get that. It has been somewhat overwhelming, as Michael Sam has drawn more attention to the Rams in one week than we saw in the entire 2013 season.

n I really thought Sam would lay low until he actually did something, like make the team.

While most are supportive of Sam’s decision and excited about his future in the NFL, Sam and his handlers started the circus. Someone had to decide to let the cameras in on the draft day for Sam. Someone said, “Shoot the kiss”. Oprah’s OWN network had to talk to someone in Sam’s camp to get the green light for the so-called documentary, otherwise known as a reality show. Orchestration? Sam and his handlers own part of this, if not all of it. I really thought Sam would lay low until he actually did something, like make the team. In most of this, the people involved are not football people. They are opportunists. They see a payday here, and it’s all in the pool now. Let’s not forget the home office. The NFL had their nose in this as well, as they apparently knew about what was going on with Sam and his involvement with OWN and HBO and their Hard Knocks series. While it has the potential to be a marketing opportunity, one has to wonder how? How does a gay 7th round draft pick who has yet to make a

CLUTCH

Continued from B3

beloved and respected by all, especially throughout the NBA. Johnson is also the man who inadvertently caused Sterling’s wall to come tumbling down when he posed for the now infamous photo with V. Stiviano. When asked whether he’d apologized directly to Johnson for his racist comments, Sterling did…well….what Sterling does. He criticized a black man.

“Well what kind of guy goes to every city and sleeps with every girl and gets AIDS?”

Sterling asked. Is that someone we want to respect and tell our kids about? I think he should be ashamed of himself. I think he should go into the background. But what does he do for the black community? Doesn’t do anything!”

He also accused Cooper of having a “plantation mentality.” Yes, even though he’s on trial in the court of public opinion and, more importantly, fighting for his franchise, Sterling couldn’t bear to say something nice about a black man. It was too much to ask. Insulting the beloved gay news anchor was just the cherry on top. Now even Mark Cuban, the man who loves to go against the grain in the NBA is backing away from Sterling and calling for him to go.

regular season tackle become a marketing star? I am trying to think of a product that is associated with the gay community that is going to sell like hot cakes because Sam is now using it. It is not adding up. Then there is the media, who in some cases cannot get out of their own way because of this story. They are the ones shaping this story and how it should be viewed. It has been reported that players started to

If complimenting a black man is too hard for Sterling, there are plenty of other strategies I’d expect an accomplished lawyer to know about. Most of them rely around the original premise of shut the heck up • Issue a statement through a family spokesperson, then shut up.

complain about what was going on. Some have acknowledged privately that it’s a distraction already.

Love to know who said what, but no one owned it. Or did anyone ever say it? You see, concoction is the weapon of choice by those who report these events. as it is juicier than truth. How is it a distraction when the season has not even started? Where is the distraction here?

There are a number of

• Refuse to comment at all under the counsel of your attorneys, then shut up.

• Claim you were intoxicated, apologize, check into the nearest Hollywood rehab center, then shut up.

I’m almost certain that Sterling’s attorneys must have given him similar advice

new faces who are part of the decision-making process and that makes some uncomfortable, mainly because they are not football people. Media guys can get a little squeamish when this happens. I understand, because we have gotten away from football here and delved into someone’s personal life and the person at the center of this situation decided to let it happen.

For Michael Sam, it is time to be a leader. His leadership

before he went hanging with Mr. Cooper, but the non-racist owner couldn’t control himself. Now black men everywhere will cheer when his franchise is snatched away from him quicker than the bogus NAACP Award.

Follow Ishmael and In the Clutch on Twitter @ IshmaelSistrunk and on Google+

skills have been strong on the football field at Mizzou. It’s time to turn those same skills to his personal life. While some are obviously intrigued, I am not sure who really will care if he does not make the team. The Rams and the NFL have their hands full until there are games being played. Most would like to see Sam as part of that process. Some things need to change though. Michael Sam wanted this, and now

he will have to make sure his newfound attention does not hurt him. Sam needs to handle his football business and not allow so many others to handle his personal business. If the paths of personal and professional cross too much and his presence becomes counterproductive for the Rams, you can add “unemployed” to “gay” football player on Michael Sam’s resume. It is still a business, and it should be.

Photo by Bill Greenblatt/UPI

Mike Claiborne

Michael Sam addresses the media last week at his opening press conference after being drafted by the St. Louis Rams

Bradley Beal shined in postseason

Chaminade alum led Wizards in scoring

By Earl Austin Jr.

Of The St. Louis American

Bradley Beal’s first postseason

RAMS

Continued from B3

Unlike Richardson, Pead does fine with pass protection and fell into a role on special teams for the Rams. But, that’s not why they drafted Pead. The Rams drafted him to be a building block and join the supporting cast of players

n In 11 postseason games, Beal averaged 19.2 points while shooting 41 percent from 3-point range and 79 percent from the free throw line.

3-point range and 79 percent from the free throw line. He also averaged 4.9 rebounds, 4.5 assists and 1.6 steals a

alongside QB Sam Bradford and help get this bland, raggedy offense to respectability. They are still looking for the 2012 Senior Bowl MVP or 2011 Big East Player of the year with over 3,200 rushing yards and 27 touchdowns to appear. That’s probably why the Rams favored Tre Mason in the draft. Now with the addition of Mason and the strong year

game. Beal also averaged 41.6 minutes a game.

Beal’s numbers in the playoffs were also an improvement from the regular season, where he averaged 17.1 points, 3.7 rebounds and 3.0 assists while shooting 40 percent from 3-point range.

The Wizards defeated the Chicago Bulls in five games in the first round before being eliminated by the Indiana Pacers in six games in the Eastern Conference semifinals.

put together by Stacy and Bennie Cunningham, Pead has become expendable. And we’ll see how he reacts to this chance to make one good final impression – if not for the Rams, maybe for another team in need.

For more Rams Roundup, go to youtube.com/ stlamericanvideo and subscribe to the page.

TRACK

Continued from B3

Prep Athlete

Raynesha Lewis

Cahokia – Girls Track and Field

The sophomore standout was the top individual performer at last week’s Illinois Class 2A sectional meet in Herrin.

Lewis won three events to lead the Comanches to the sectional championship with 135 points. Lewis won the long jump, triple jump and 100-meter high hurdles.

Lewis won the long jump with a leap of 18 feet 3 inches, the triple jump with an effort of 36 feet 2 ¾ inches and the 100-meter hurdles in a time of 15.05 seconds.

Lewis will be one of the top athletes to watch at this weekend’s upcoming IHSA Class 2A State Track and Field Championships in Charleston, Ill.

Maplewood’s boys are taking athletes in eight events to Jefferson City, including their sectional-champion 4x200 and 4x400 relay teams. Maplewood senior Essence Brewer is a qualifier in the girls 100, 200 and 400.

Metro’s girls are led by Tiana Jackson in the 100 and triple jump. Metro has also qualified its three sprint relay teams.

In the Class 1 state meet, McKinley Classical will be taking girls in six different events and boys in four events to state. Jamila Ricketts was a sectional champion in the long jump and triple jump.

Illinois girls state

The top girls in Illinois are headed to Charleston to compete in the IHSA State Championships on the campus of Eastern Illinois University. Cahokia’s girls will be a team to watch at the Class 2A state meet. The Comanches will be a huge threat to bring home a state championship.

Sophomore Raynesha Lewis was a sectional champion in the long jump, triple jump and the 100-meter high hurdles. Freshman Mariya Hudson was a sectional champion in the 200 and 400 and a second-place finisher in the long jump. Daisha Townsend won sectional titles in the shot put and discus while Takyra Buford was a sectional champion in the 300-meter low hurdles.

The Comanches are also taking their 4x100, 4x200 and 4x400-meter relay teams.

Several top athletes from the Metro East are also headed to Charleston for the Class 3A girls’ state championships.

O’Fallon qualified athletes in 11 events from last weekend’s Rock Island sectional, in which the Panthers finished in first place. Sprinter Aleasha Lewis (400) and Samantha Rapp (1,600) were sectional champions.

Edwardsville’s Kristen Dowell has qualified in four events. She will compete in the long jump, triple jump, 100-meter high hurdles and 300-meter low hurdles. Senior Aaliyah Covington was a sectional champion in the shot put and discus.

Belleville West standout

Jasmine Berry was a sectional champion in the 300-meter hurdles. She also qualified in the 100-meter hurdles. East St. Louis will be taking all four of its relay teams to Charleston.

Sectionals this weekend

The big schools in Missouri and boys in Illinois will be competed in sectional meets this week. Rockwood Summit will host the Class 3 Section 1 and Class 4 Section 1 meets on Saturday. Troy will host the Class 3 Section 2 and Class

Bradley Beal, a former Chaminade College Prep All-American, was the leading scorer for the Washington Wizards as they advanced to the second round of the Eastern Conference playoffs.

Webster U. offers 1-year MBA

Akande: ‘a degree program in a very compressed format’

By Chris King Of The St. Louis American

Benjamin Ola. Akande, dean of the George Herbert Walker School of Business & Technology at Webster University, said his school’s new one-year MBA program resulted from a “reality check.”

“The market was telling us that more and more people need to pursue higher education but don’t want to have to do that in two or three years,” Akande said.

“They want to do it in a very compressed format. So we came up with a degree program in a very compressed format for people looking to define themselves with a competitive advantage in the market within a very short period of time.”

locally and on other Webster campuses around the world.

“We believe that people learn best in a cohort, which enables them to work together,” Akande said.

The program offers 10 courses and 36 credit hours scheduled over two fall terms, two spring terms and a summer term, plus a series of Saturday seminars, for $20,000. The program is structured with a cohort model, where students work in a small group of peers in connection to other cohorts,

$BLINGZ

Continued from B1 trip, she found it. The store had just opened that Saturday.

“I walked in the door and they were taking everything out, actually putting stuff on the walls,” Robinson said.

“When I walked in, they said, ‘Oh, you’re our first customer.’” Robinson said she almost

Webster’s international roster of campuses will enable students in St. Louis to collaborate with students and cohorts in Geneva, Vienna, Amsterdam, as well as Orlando, Denver and Kansas City. “Some universities get the global piece by sending students across the pond for a semester or for two weeks in China,” Akande said. “Webster’s infrastructure of campuses around the world connects students in real time to different cohorts in other places.”

In the Saturday seminars, MBA students will learn from a professor who taught a great deal to their dean: David Pendleton, an associate fellow from Oxford University’s Said Business School and visiting faculty at Webster University.

“Three years ago I attended Oxford University

wanted to cry, because it was exactly like He had told her. Instead, she chatted, made mental notes and got permission to take pictures. She purchased a few items before going back to the other jewelry store to shop and make additional notes. When she returned to St. Louis, she presented the idea to her husband. “He looked at me like I had a third eye,” Robinson said. Another few weeks passed,

for a leadership development program,” Akande said. “David was one of my professors. I came back home and decided to recruit him to come to Webster as a visiting professor.”

Akande asked Pendleton to help develop a new leadership development curriculum for the university.

“David brings 25 years of experience preparing managers to become leaders,” Akande said. “That is a critical part of our curriculum.”

Akande was struck by Pendleton’s concept of “leadership DNA.”

“We all have things we are good at and things we are not good at, and things we are not good at, we need to go find people who can do them,” Akande summarized. “Leadership is not having all of the answers. It’s finding people who have the answers. It’s recruiting people who have competencies where you are not strong.”

The one-year MBA program begins in the fall term only. To be considered, students must meet certain course work and GPA requirements. All applications must be submitted by July 11. For more information, visit Webster. edu/1MBA.

and the jewelry store was still on her mind. Sleepless in St. Louis, Robinson again asked for divine intervention.

“I just told the Lord, ‘If this was meant to be, You would touch my husband’s heart,’” Robinson said. “About a month later, my husband came to me and said, ‘Sweetie, the Lord told me it is from Him that we are to open this store.’”

Robinson searched online, downloaded a sample business plan, and looked for potential

Last Tuesday Gene Dobbs Bradford, executive director of Jazz St. Louis, announced its $10 million capital campaign to support a new state-of-the-art live performance and jazz education center at 3540 Washington Ave. in Grand Center. David and Thelma Steward, John and Alison Ferring, Centene Corporation, Ken and Nancy Kranzberg, Emerson, the Jazz St. Louis Board of Directors and other jazz patrons have contributed leadership gifts in excess of $5.8 million. “Thelma and I are eternally grateful that the new facilities will represent their legacy and incorporate an educational pillar to enrich the jazz community,” David Steward said. The remaining $4 million will be raised during the public phase of the capital campaign.

vendors of unique, nickel- and lead-free merchandise she thought would sell well in North County. $Blingz was born.

When the Michael’s and Petco stores adjacent to the store relocated up the highway, some thought it meant the end of this costume jewelry bazaar, presuming that is where $Blingz’s customer base emanated. They underestimated the feel-good value of new, affordable accessorizing. Word

about the store got around, primarily from one blinger to another. The business has been open nearly three years.

Robinson finds earrings and jewelry selections that complement hairstyles of varying textures and lengths.

The shop’s inventory includes jewelry, scarves, hats, sunglasses purses, handbags, Bible covers and plenty of girlie knickknacks.

Surprisingly, the sparkle does not scare off the gents,

as men make up a significant portion of $Blingz’s customer base. Relatives and friends come alone and by the carload, mothers bring their daughters, grannies bring their grandkids and godmothers embellish their goddaughters.

“They don’t have to spend $10 or $15 for a pair of earrings,” Robinson said, “when they can get all different pairs of earrings that are unique and different.”

Benjamin Ola. Akande

Jazz STL announces capital campaign

Photo by Wiley Price

Fellowship on parade

Community connects at annual Annie Malone event

By Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American

If the term “perfect parade weather” exists, it would describe the bright sun and generous breeze felt Sunday afternoon as black St. Louis came together once again for the Annie Malone Children and Family Services Center’s annual May Day Parade. Ministries, schools, businesses, bands, radio stations, television stations, sororities, fraternities and more took to the streets and carried on for a show that stretched more

than 10 city blocks in a tradition that has endured for more than 100 years – nearly 95 of them consecutively. Starting at 20th and Market, presentations by participants varied as much as the organizations represented in the parade. KMOV-TV opted for a convertible that featured news anchor Sharon Reed and her adorable daughter waving to the crowd. William C. Harris Funeral Home showcased a procession of nearly 25 Cadillacs and limousines that seemed to

See PARADE, C4

By Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American

Before author Cynthia Bond began the conversation about her novel “Ruby” Thursday evening at St. Louis County Library headquarters, the audience talked amongst themselves about what they declared to be a literary gem. Only two weeks after its release, they sat eager to discuss the book they had already categorized as a classic. “Ruby” is already being compared to the work of Toni Morrison and Alice Walker. “The way she uses the language in this book is just phenomenal,” a man leaned over to tell a woman who sat two seats over. His words hit home with his seat neighbor when Bond began reading, after a short synopsis of “Ruby.” She chose the making of a cake as part of her selected reading from “Ruby.” Despite how delicious the passage sounded, it didn’t seem to be a major element of the story –until Bond revealed that it was how “Ruby” began.

While in a writing class more than a decade ago, Bond was asked to write about a surprise. She went with a man taking a cake to a woman. While in the midst of her creative process, Bond received a surprise of her own.

“A lot of characters stumbled into my head,” Bond said. “I never met

Bridal shower for Clarissa

Photo by Dave Moore

WITH DANA G. RANDOLPH

Cheryl Polk, the mother of the bride, with bride-to-be Clarissa Vaughn Polk and host June Fowler. Photo by Gwendolyn Key

Photos by Wiley Price

Highlands Golf & Tennis Center in Forest Park hosts Night on the Greens. Night on the Greens is a one of kind, glow in the dark fundraiser benefiting the Gateway Area Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Enjoy a glowing outdoor evening featuring food and drinks from Gamlin Whiskey House, music by Phat Kat DJ’s “DJ TooTall”, raffles, contests, lawn games and more. 5163 Clayton Ave., 63110. For more information, visit http:// site118896-1712-1805. strikingly.com/.

Sat., Jun. 7, 8 a.m. (7 a.m. registration) The St. Louis Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Incorporated is hosting its annual Kappa League Scholarship Fund Golf Tournament, Eagle Springs Golf Course, 2575 Redman Road, St. Louis, MO 63136. For more information, call Contact: Christopher Harrell at (314) 477 1482.

Sat., June 7, 9 a.m., Coffee Cartel hosts Monopoly® Tournament. To benefit United4Children. Three Rounds of play (90Min rounds) Grand prize $500 Cash. Come be the king of Monopoly®. #2 Maryland Plaza, 63108. For more information, visit www. thecoffeecartel.com.

Sat., June 7, 7 p.m., Gateway Motorsports Park presents Neon Dash 5K. Neon Dash is the Original Nighttime 5k Run and Walk Event that’s been sweeping the Country since 2011. Become a part of the show when you run, walk or dance this 5k course as you’re covered in brilliant Neon Colors. Add to the entire experience by dressing in costumes and wearing anything that blinks and glows. Thousands of glowing Participants will light up. The After Dash Bash filled with UV Backlight, Music, and Entertainment. 700 Raceway Blvd., East St Louis, IL 62201. For more information, visit http://www.neondash.com/ locations/stlouis/.

Sun., June 8, 6 p.m., S.L.I.M presents Loosecannon Celebrity Basketball Game. Chaifetz Arena, 1 S. Compton Ave., 63103. For more information, call (314) 9775000.

comedy

Sat., May 24, 7 p.m. & 9:30 p.m., Lumiere Casino presents D.L. Hughley. 99 N. Second St., 63160.

Aug. 9, 6 p.m. & 8 p.m., The Four Seasons welcomes Bill Cosby. For more information, visit www.ticketmaster.com

theatre

Sat., June 21, 8 p.m., Loretto-Hilton Center presents The Magic Flute. Mozart’s most enchanting masterpiece returns in an allnew production, directed and designed by fashion icon Isaac Mizrahi. In this fantastic fairy tale, a prince goes on a quest to rescue a beautiful princess. His companion, a bird catcher, hopes to snare true love. But in the end, it’s revealed that no one’s magic is ever quite as it seems. 130 Edgar Rd., 63119. For more information, visit www.ExperienceOpera.org.

June 25-July 1, The Muny at Forest Park presents Tarzan. One Theatre Dr., 63112.

literary

Fri., May 23, 6 p.m. The Eugene B. Redmond Writers Club presents A Multi-Arts Homage to Miles Davis, Henry Dumas & Katherine Dunham. Featuring soularpoetic voices like Michael Castro, Shirley LeFlore, Jeffrey Skowblow, Jaye P. Willis, and more. Dance/drums by Dunham Protégés Theodore Jamison & Vivian Watt, Kuumba Youth Performing Ensemble, and Sunshine’s Community Performance Ensemble. Music from Jazz trumpeter Anthony Wiggins.

Building D, SIUE/ESL

Higher Education Center, 601 J.R. Thompson Dr., East St. Louis, IL 62202. For more information, call (618) 6503991.

Tues., May 27, 7 p.m., Left Bank Books hosts author Katherine Mooney, author of Race Horse Men. Join local author and Wash U author Katherine Mooney as she recaptures the sights, sensations, and illusions of America’s first mass spectator sport. Her central characters are not the elite white owners of slaves and thoroughbreds but the black jockeys, grooms, and horse trainers who called themselves race horse men and made the racetrack run--until Jim Crow drove them from their jobs. 399 N. Euclid Ave., 63108. For more information, call (314) 367-6731.

arts

Fri., May 30, 6 p.m., Clayton Fine Art Gallery presents The Blooming Artists Project. This initiative pairs talented

Lumiere Casino presents D.L. Hughley. For more information, see COMEDY.

students from elementary to high school with professional artists and allows for the exchange of perspectives and techniques. Students share original artwork with their mentors who in turn, create their own piece inspired by their counterparts. The formal presentation and discussion will provide an opportunity for both artists to elaborate upon their thought processes and to recognize the power of their work and future potential. 21 N. Bemiston Rd., 63105. For more information, visit www. claytonfineartgallery.com.

Sat., May 31, 10 a.m., Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum presents Tour de Museum. Guided by Trailnet, Tour de Museum leads cyclists of all ages through St. Louis on a route that provides riders with a variety of programs, tours, and activities by some of the city’s top museums. Route includes stops at the Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis, The Pulitzer Foundation for the Arts, the Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum, the Saint Louis Art Museum, and the World Chess Hall of

Fame. The tour is free, but registration at the Kemper Art Museum is required. 1 Brookings Dr., 63130. For more information, visit www. trailnet.org.

June 6 – 8, Art and Air Fairgrounds host Art & Air. The 11th Annual Art & Air fine arts fair is set in the grounds of Eden Theological Seminary/Webster University. Supported by the Webster Community Arts Foundation, Art & Air features on-site food, non-stop live music, and creative activities that draw 25,000 visitors and buyers. 475 E. Lockwood Ave., 63119.

lectures

Wed., May 28, 10 a.m., Woman’s Place will offer their popular free domestic violence training Creating Allies in Safety, Preregistration is required. Call 314-645-4848 to reserve your place. For more information, visit www.womansplacestl.org.

Thur., May 29, 6:30 p.m., Maplewood Public Library presents The Real James Bond. Hear the story of the real guy who was the real spy that inspired Ian Fleming to create James Bond. This is the true story of the man whose exploits made him a legend in British Intelligence and a bogeyman to the Communists. Presented by Gary Jackson. 7750 Lohmeyer Ave., 63143. For more information, call (314) 781-2174.

health

Sat., May 24, 7 a.m., Christ Deliverance Ministry presents Third Annual Mind and Body 5K Health and Fitness Event. 5K race through midtown’s historic Grand Center, a bootcamp, and information about leading one’s best life through healthy living seminars. $500 will be awarded to the first place winner of the 5K. Free children’s eye exams will be

offered by Ronald McDonald Care Mobile. Cardinal Ritter College Prep High School, 701 S. Spring Ave., 63108. For more information, call (314) 361-0065.

Sat., May 24, 7 a.m., Cardinal Ritter College Prep HS hosts CDM Mind and Body 5K Health and Fitness Event. The third annual CDM Mind and Body 5K health and fitness event, hosted by Christ Deliverance Ministry challenges St. Louisans to implement lifestyle change with a 5K race through midtown’s historic Grand Center, challenge themselves to a boot camp, and learn about leading their best life through healthy living seminars. 701 North Spring Ave., 63108. For more information, visit www. cdmmindandbody.org.

Saturday, May 31, 8 a.m., Wesley House Association, is sponsoring “Shape-Up, Sip, and Savor”. Event includes: medical screenings, Zumba, slides, and aerobics. Wesley House Association, 4507 Lee Avenue. Call (314) 385-1000 for more information.

Saturday, June 21, 2014 at 2:15 p.m., True Light Missionary Baptist Church Black History Program, “A Taste of Blackness” in Clopton Hall after the Fabulous Fashion & Program.2838 James “Cool Papa” Bell Ave., For more information, call the Church Office at (314) 531-1801.

Sun., June 29, 3 p.m., The Joys of Glory Gospel Singers present Major Day – Childhood Hunger Service. Special guests include Ivy Airs, Jordan Airs, Dello Thedford and Gospel Symphonic Choir, and more. Solomon Temple M.B. Church, 4859 St. Louis Ave., 63115. For more information, call (314) 355-1528 or (314) 533-8705.

Gospel according to Stripling

Jazz trumpeter will swing with the symphony on May 30

By Chris King Of The St. Louis American

When trumpeter Byron

Stripling takes the stage at Powell Hall at 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 30 to lead the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra through “Gospel According to Swing,” he will be returning to a city and an orchestra that helped make him the musician he is today.

Stripling, who is artistic director of the Columbus Jazz Orchestra and a worldtraveling soloist, got his start in the industry thanks to a St. Louis trumpeter, Clark Terry. Stripling was a student at the prestigious Eastman School of Music in Rochester, NY, when Terry offered him a job playing trumpet on tour. Stripling dropped out of school and signed on for the 12-week tour across the United States and Europe.

Stripling’s eyes were opened to some of the great concert stages of the world – and his ears were alerted to the gospel.

“I still try to make the connection to the gospel Clark has in his playing,” Stripling said – and then proceeded to sing what he had in mind. “He played the notes in between the cracks. That’s the gospel thing. The wavering between the notes – that’s all church stuff.”

Stripling grew up (in various states) listening to jazz over the shoulder of his father, Luther Stripling, a classical singer.

“When my father came home, he relaxed – and then he was

all about the jazz,” Stripling said. Clark Terry was one of his father’s favorites, as was another trumpet player from the other side of the Mississippi River.

“My father was a voracious consumer of jazz – especially Miles Davis,” Stripling said.

The son would grow up to meet and even be treated to a sort of private concert by the great composer and trumpeter from East St. Louis.

After breaking in with Clark Terry, Stripling played in bands led by Dizzy Gillespie, Woody Herman, Dave Brubeck, Lionel Hampton, Louis Bellson and the Count Basie Orchestra.

Flying to Europe on tour with the Basie band in the 1980s, another musician told him Miles Davis was on the same flight. Stripling was taken up to first class to meet the legend.

“He punched me on the shoulder!” Stripling said, as if he could still feel a smart from his knuckles. After some small talk during the flight, Miles invited him to come see his concert that night.

When Miles told the promoter who met him at baggage claim he had some new guests for that night’s show, the promoter said the show was sold out.

“Then seat them onstage with me,” Miles said, according to Stripling. “If you have any problem with that, there will be no concert tonight.”

There was a concert that night, and Stripling experienced it from the stage.

“What an amazing thing it was to sit on stage and watch Miles play, a breath away from his trumpet sound,” Stripling said. “It breathed life into what I was doing as a trumpet player.”

The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra itself breathed life into Stripling’s trumpet playing

Byron Stripling will lead the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra in “Gospel According to Swing” Friday, May 30 at Powell Hall.

Photo by Scott Cunningham

PARADE

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stretch the entire parade route.

Some, like the City of Berkeley, opted for traditional floats. Schnucks featured a semi-truck, and Coca Cola carted out goodies to onlookers from grocery baskets.

Others got new age.

Tammie Holland of Majic 100.3 FM scurried around

POTPOURRI

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even earlier in his musical development.

His family lived in St. Louis (Stripling rattled off the address on Vorhof Drive from memory) in the late 1970s and early 1980s, when his father was teaching at SIUE and the son was away at college. On one visit home, Stripling went to Powell Hall to see the symphony perform “Also Sprach Zarathustra” by Richard Strauss.

“It’s a tone poem with a big trumpet solo,” Stripling said. “At the time, the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra had one of the world’s greatest trumpet players in Susan Slaughter. I had never seen a woman play classical trumpet. I was blown away – seeing a female trumpet player hit all these high trumpet fanfares.”

The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra , he said, has “remained embedded” in his mind ever since. He has performed with the orchestra on several occasions. At first, he felt intimidated, but the “vibe” of the people got him over that.

“St. Louis is a little Southern, a little Midwestern,” he said. “They tend to be good, genuine, friendly people. Put that together with amazing musicianship, with an orchestra that is second to none, and what an experience!”

The quality of musicianship, he said, makes it easy to play gospel and to swing with this orchestra.

“I involve the orchestra actively in playing the jazzslash-gospel parts,” Stripling said. “The orchestra has to focus in a different way. They’re not just playing whole notes from a score.”

He provided a vivid example, which suggests what the audience might expect on May 30.

“When we play ‘Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child,’ an old Negro spiritual, we begin it like an Afro-Cuban thing,” he said.

“The percussion guy in the orchestra is used to playing bells and little things like that. I have him playing a conga and cowbell and tympani. A lot of times when you play classical music, you try to play delicate. I want you to curl your toes, hike up your behind and hit the drums!”

Tickets may be purchased by phone at 314-534-1700, online at www.stlsymphony.org or in person at the Powell Hall Box Office, 718 North Grand Blvd.

of Clarissa’s special day. A few well-wishers enjoying Clarissa’s company included June Fowler, hostess, Potpourri correspondent Gwendolyn Key, Bonnie Gipson, Mary Attyberry-Polk Jean Player Valerie Bell, Barbara Turkington, Darnetta Clinkscale Vanessa Davis Donnie Harris, Bettie Williams, Brittany Banks – bridesmaid, Sharon McAllister, Myra Crawford, Velma Steward, Lauren Parks, Caressa Davis, Cat Cook - bridesmaid, Sharon Younge Mabel Briggs and Evan Fowler Cheers to Clarissa and Tushin! The St. Louis University School of Medicine Office of Multicultural Affairs hosted their annual John H. Gladney, M.D. Diversity Awards Reception and Dinner on May 1. The dinner was held in the handsome St. Louis University Il Monestero Center. The dinner is held in honor of the late Dr. Gladney who served as the first African-American department chair of otolaryngology at St. Louis University School of Medicine. The event is hosted by Michael Railey, M.D. (SLU Medical School associate dean, Office of Multicultural Affairs) and coordinated by Colette McLemore, M.A., director diversity operations, Office of

BOND

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them and I don’t know them, but they begged to be told so I let them talk.”

The title character of Bond’s debut novel escapes a traumatic childhood by fleeing her small East Texas town for New York City. After successfully living under the wing of a wealthy arts patroness, Ruby is forced to return to the setting of her tormented early existence.

“She brings out the best and the worst in people,” Bond said. “At its heart this is truly a love story.”

The process of bringing Ruby to readers would take 10 years.

the parade on a Segue (the two-wheeled single passenger motorized standing scooter) while stopping to pose for selfies and interact with the crowd.

As she rubbed shoulders with fans, Holland showcased the thing that sets the May Day experience apart from the average parade. Connection and fellowship seem to come standard between marchers and onlookers.

This year’s crowd was on the light side, but the overall spirit – from participants and

Multicultural Affairs.

Philip O. Alderson, M.D., SLU Medical School dean and vice president of medical affairs, welcomed guests, students, awardees and the keynote speaker with sage remarks. He also restated his continued commitment to diversity within the medical school.

The keynote was Ronald Wyatt, M.D., MHA, DMS(HON). Dr. Wyatt is the medical director, healthcare improvement for The Joint Commission. He is a graduate of SLU Medical School and served as the first AfricanAmerican chief resident at SLU Hospital. Dr. Wyatt’s message tasked addressees with “finding justice in every decision you make”.

observers at the curb – was as warm as ever. Never was this more apparent than when the Normandy Senior High Vikings Marching Band was waved forward. They had the full support of the crowd when students of the embattled district kicked off the opening for their take on Pharrell’s smash hit “Happy.” The response was overwhelming. Cheers, “soul claps” and even a sing-along ensued that captured the essence of May Day 2014.

Graduating 4th year student award recipients and their upcoming residency programs were: Diversity Award - Jennifer Ray, M.D. (Loyola), Diversity Leadership Award - Taron Davis, M.D. (University of Colorado) and the Diversity Champion Award - Kanika Turner, M.D. (SLU). Special recognition awards were given to Collin Chen, M.D. (BJC), Francis Dailey, M.D. (Cedars Sinai), Andrea Ma, M.D. (University of Colorado), Christina Molumby, M.D.(Oklahoma) and John Vu, M.D. (BJC). A few faces in the crowd included Connie Gladney Agard, Judy Gladney, Lamar Agard Sr. and Jr. Ramone Agard, Briana Stewart Danielle Stewart Malik Stewart, Kathleen and Judge Charles Shaw Sandra and Nat Murdock, M.D., James Whittico, M.D., Dr. Karla Scott Mallory Hubbard, Tiffany Adams, Arielle Randolph Paul Randolph, Esq., Bernard Randolph Jr., M.D., Billie Jean Randolph and Jessica Ray (Jennifer’s twin) with their mom who was celebrating her birthday. Later this year Jazz at the Bistro will evolve into the Harold and Dorothy Steward Center for Jazz. The site will be a jazz education center with two venues for jazz. The larger will be named the Ferring Jazz Bistro. The location will remain in Grand Center and is being funded through a $10 million capital campaign. Frontrunners in fund-raising are David and Thelma Steward, John and Alison Ferring, Ken and Nancy Kranzberg and the Jazz St. Louis Board of Directors. For additional information check out the Jazz St. Louis website www.jazzstl.org. I am sure Barbara Rose would be ecstatic!

“It is quite the labor of love,” Bond said.

Thanks to a soothing voice and naturally poetic phrasing, Bond sounded as if she were narrating her own audio book version of “Ruby” as she read selections and provided the backdrop and storyline.

“Almost immediately she begins to lose things,” Bond says of Ruby. “She loses her purse, she loses her lipstick. She loses all the money she brought with her. And very slowly she loses her wits –and begins wandering these red roads of East Texas. She wanders for 11 years, and every night she goes out to a hill and she wails like a distant train.”

Bond had the most interesting outline to guide her in telling Ruby’s story

Happy 92nd birthday (May 22) to my loving Dad, Bernard C. Randolph Sr., M.D.! Happy 96th birthday (May 22) to the fabulous Mrs. Eunice Lane! Mrs. Lane is our lifelong family friend and Tammie Holland’s great auntie. Happy Memorial Day, everyone! Be safe. Dana Grace: dgrandolph@ live.com.

– which came courtesy of her mother, former St. Louis Community College Chancellor Zelema Harris.

“When I was growing up, my mother – who grew up in a small East Texas town – she had all of these little scars,” Bond said.

“From stepping on a rusty nail and they wrapped a piece of salt pork around her foot, to breaking a tea cup on her arm. As kids we would say, ‘Hey, tell us about that scar.’” She would tell them about her scars.

“And my mom is a really brilliant storyteller,” Bond said. “As children we were just riveted by these stories and would say, ‘Tell us another one … tell us another one,’ and it got to be as if her body were a chapter book. That was the genesis of this book.” Bond also felt the need to incorporate the truth of her mother’s sister being murdered by the Ku Klux Klan within the pages of “Ruby.”

“She was murdered by the Klan because she was in love with a white man – and the white man loved her … that was the problem,” Bond said.

“She was 18. It really has echoed through our family. It was as if a bomb exploded, and there’s shrapnel – and I think one of the really big inspirations was to tell that story. It is a pain that has existed in our family for generations, and I get to tell it.”

Through “Ruby,” she also had the opportunity to share stories she heard while working as a social worker in Hollywood and drew from her own experiences with abuse.

“I didn’t walk for 11 years on a red dirt road, but I had a journey of healing,” Bond said. “One of the main things in the book is that healing is possible – and love makes it possible for any type of healing to take place.”

Community Ambassadors for the Arts

Art Museum accepting docent applications

“People’s interest in art is inborn. It just needs to be nourished and brought to the surface,” says Billie Phillips, volunteer docent with the Saint Louis Art Museum for nearly 20 years. Docent guides inspire conversations with visitors of all ages while engaging with works of art throughout the Museum.

From Africa to Asia to America, visitors can travel the world by viewing art and experiencing cultures from around the world. The Saint Louis Art Museum is one of the nation’s greatest art museums with collections that include works of art of exceptional quality from virtually every culture and time period, including more than 300 works of art by African American artists. Docents become part of an educational team that communicates the value of artistic and social diversity. Docents from our community can give greater exposure to works of art that speak to the African American experience and aesthetic. Docents lead more than 32,000 visitors annually, including leading more than 23,000 school children from public schools private, and parochial throughout the metropolitan area. Docents primarily lead pre-K – 12 school tours, which may include writing, drawing and movement activities. In addition to guiding students, docents also lead include college level through adult visitor tours.

The Art Museum invites enthusiastic knowledge seekers to learn more about becoming a docent. Volunteering as a docent involves a commitment of time and energy, but all docents agree that the reward of sharing the art collection with

children and adults in our communities is well worth the effort. We hope that you consider joining the over 100 volunteers in the metro area who have earned the title of Saint Louis Art Museum Docent. Art history and tour training is held on Mondays from 9:30 – 12 noon from September to May, with other additional days as speciied by Museum Learning and Engagement staff. If being a role model for young museum visitors and engaging in lively conversation with adults around art and culture is something you would ind interesting, please consider submitting an application to become a docent at the Art Museum’s website www.slam.org. Simply go to About Us, Volunteers and then click on to Learn More, which will take you to the docent application.

• SAVE the DATE •

Seeing the Unspeakable: The Art of Kara Walker Lecture by Gwendolyn DuBois Shaw, PhD

Friday, June 6, 2014, Saint Louis Art Museum, The Farrell Auditorium, 6:30pm, FREE Tickets

In 1997, at the age of 27, Kara Walker was the youngest artist to receive the prestigious MacArthur Foundation “genius” award. And ever since that day, she has been considered “controversial.”

Dr. Shaw will analyze the inspiration behind Kara Walker’s art and offer an overview of Walker’s life and career; contextualize her art within the history of African American visual culture and in relation to the work of contemporary artists including Faith Ringgold, Carrie Mae Weems, and Bettye Saar.

Docent Joyce leads a group on a tour.

~ Celebrations ~

Birthdays

Happy 60th Birthday to Jerold Tate on May 24! You have been a great head of this family. You have always done an awesome job of keeping the family together! We love you! Your sisters, brothers, nieces, and nephews and friends

Etta Henderson was born May 17, 1911in Starkville, Miss. She became a preacher’s wife and was married for over 50 years. She has been a proud member of Compton Hill Baptist Church for over 80 years. This year Etta celebrates 103 years of God’s rich blessings!

Dara Danielle Simmons turned 12 on May 21. She is the sweetest and smartest girl we know and brings joy to our lives. We love you!

Mom, Granny Delores and Mack

Happy Birthday to our beautiful and loving mother, Virginia Price Booker. On May 22, she will be old enough to retire! God bless you, Mama. We love you!

Reunions

All reunion announcements can be viewed online!

Beaumont Class of 1968 46th Reunion Weekend: Happy Hour, Friday, June 6 and Picnic, Saturday, June 7. Meetings to wrap up plans for the weekend will be Saturday, April 26, 3-5 pm with final meeting May 24, 2014 2-5 pm, both at STL County

Library 7606 Natural Bridge. For more information email bhsco1968@att.net or call 314-869-8312.

Beaumont High School Class of 1984 is planning its 30 year class reunion for October 3-4, 2014. Reunion dinner will be held Saturday, October 3 at Hilton at the Ball Park. Please check us out on Facebook page “Beaumont Class of 1984” for class updates. The class meets the last Friday of every month. Contact Rochelle Williams at rochellewilliams001@yahoo. com.

McKinley’s Class of 1984 would like to invite alumni on a three-day, two-night, cruise to the Bahama’s to celebrate

their 30-year reunion on September 19-22, 2014. For more information contact:Ms. Vanessa Thomas (Group Specialist) Mon-Fri 11:30 am-8:30pm @ 1-(800)514-9986 Ext:7565 or E-mail vthomas@vacationtogo. com

Normandy High School Class of 1994 will hold its 20th Reunion Weekend, August 22-24, which will include a Meet and Greet, All White Party, and Ol’ School Field Day. For more information please visit our website at http://nykeawatts.wix.com/ normandy1994.

Riverview Gardens High School Class of 1994 is planning its 20th reunion.

Please join us via Facebook: Riverview Gardens Senior High Class of 1994. Please email your name, address, telephone number and/or email to rgclassof1994@gmail.com.

Soldan will host its 5th AllClass Alumni Skate Party on Saturday, May 24 at Skate King, 6100 Natural Bridge Rd., Pine Lawn, MO 63121 from 9 p.m. - 12 a.m. Open to all skaters 18 years and older. Tickets are $5 in advance/$7 at the door, skates included. For more information call: (314) 413-9088.

Soldan class of 1969 is planning its 45th reunion on June 6-8, 2014. Please contact Bennie Robinson at 314-

or Barry Taylor at 314-520-1179. For more info visit

at

on

soldancwc1969.com. Sumner Alumni Association hosts its 7th Annual Scholarship Awards Luncheon & Fashion Show Saturday, June 7, 2014 at the Renaissance St. Louis Airport Hotel, noon–4 p.m. This year we are honoring former Track Coach, Mrs. Lynn Mitchell and we are seeking all former Track Members 1972-1983. All alumni are welcome. The cost is $50 per person w/complimentary parking. For more info, contact B. Louis at 314.385.9843 or sumneralumniassn@yahoo. com.

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

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, 2315 Pine St., St. Louis, MO 63103 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

Kennedy Alise Jones has been selected as a State Finalist for the National American Miss Missouri Princess Pageant. She is the daughter of Damon and Vanessa Jones of St. Louis, MO. The pageant will be held in June in Columbia, MO.

Jerold Tate

Etta Henderson

Dara Danielle Simmons

Virginia Price Booker

Ministry co-sponsors mock trial for youth

The Links, Inc., My Sisters Keepers 2 and St. Louis Slammers partner on event

American staff

The Links, Inc., My Sisters Keepers 2 and St. Louis Slammers Athletic Ministry, directed by Robert Addison and Katrina Addison, recently organized a mock trial for youth at the St. Louis County Courthouse, presided over by St. Louis County Judge Judy Draper, a member of Links, Inc.

The event was co-sponsored by The Links St. Louis Chapter’s program Services To Youth, My Sisters Keepers 2, Chapter President Link Mary Thomas, Sandra Murdock, Services to Youth chair for the Links, and Link JoAnn Adams, Services to Youth co-chair.

The mock trial case, Link County vs. Jordan Sticky Fingers and Jonathan Sneaky Eyes, involved two youths who were accused of stealing watches worth $35,000.00 from a department Store. They faced a 5-7 year prison sentence. The students were accompanied by real lawyers who sat next to the students in court and “second-chaired” them.

Judge Draper’s bailiff, Will Sidney, was on hand to open court and keep order.

The student public defender roles were played by Alyssa Green, grade 10, and Constance Wilson, grade 10. They were second-chaired by attorney Nadine Nunn, attorney Steve Mandleman and Kevin Roach.

Racquel Addision, grade 11, played the role of the prosecutor. She was secondchaired by Missouri Supreme Court Judge George Draper.

Several students served as witnesses and a number of students and a Link sister served as the jury. The jury returned a verdict of “not guilty,” read by the court clerk, played by Faith Coffman, age 10.

However, when Judge George Draper asked that the jury be polled to determine if the verdict was the true verdict for all jurors, one of the student jurors announced

she was “unsure.” Judge George Draper then asked for a mistrial, which was granted by Presiding Judge Judy Draper with a smile.

“This was a great educational teaching tool for our youths to learn how the administration of justice works within our jury trial system and which side of the bench the youths would like to sit,” organizers said. “The students were engaged for nearly five hours and some commented that it was so much fun, that they didn’t notice the time passing.”

Raven Addison, student who played a juror, said, “This was a great experience. I have never been in a court. Now I know where the jury sits. I learned a lot.”

Ministry hosts college fair

NaWay Ministries, a Christian nonproit organization, is hosting a College and Career Readiness Resource Fair and Janet L. Armstrong Scholarship Fundraiser noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 31 at Tandy Community Center, 4206 Kennerly Ave.

Along with food, games, music and prizes, there will be workshops for all ages. Workshops will cover ACT Prep, College Applications, Job Search & Resume Editing and more information on the Janet L. Armstrong Scholarship for St. Louis city and Normandy graduating seniors. Entry and resources are free to all.

Free gospel choir concert

More than 60 glorious voices will perform at the Community Gospel Choir’s seventh-season finale concert. The free concert will be held on Sunday, June 1 at 7 p.m. at Concordia Lutheran Church, 505 S Kirkwood Rd. in Kirkwood. Special guests will be the Legend Singers. This legendary group, whose mission is preserve the traditional African-American spiritual, has performed since 1940. The two choirs will perform separately and as a combined ensemble, presenting both spirituals and contemporary gospel favorites. Admission is free. For more information, visit www. communitygospelchoir.org

For most of my life I have been the kind of person who found it hard to ask anybody for anything. Asking for help was like declaring defeat. So I spent a good portion of my adult life consumed with making it on my own. I had just enough success to actually believe that what I achieved was done mostly by my own devices.

I’ve since learned that personal or professional success with said perspective can be dangerous and, in some cases, spiritually lethal. In a world where you think you’re the reason you got it going on, you give God no credit. As a matter of fact, giving God any praises when you believe it’s all about you actually goes contrary to the spotlight you think you’ve created for yourself.

God becomes an intruder sharing in the spoils of your supposed victories. After all, wasn’t it your guile and wily ways that got you where you are today? Your life becomes a game of “get over,” “keep away” and “I’ve got mine, now you get yours.”

If you know anyone who operates this way, you also know that over time they begin to look and sound quite foolish. Do you know anyone who has fallen from their own self-made perch?

God gives us all a chance. Free will allows us to choose right from wrong, good or

bad, Him or the devil. In the long run, it’s up to us, but I have to believe the Lord lets each of us know, wherever we wind up, the right choice was always Him. Have you ever noticed that the older you get the smarter your parents become? I swear by the time you reach middle age, your folks are downright brilliant. If the truth be told, they don’t change. You do. Like our parents, God is waiting, sometimes patiently, for a change in us. Any advance towards him is met with open arms and spiritual kisses. It is very often hard to admit that Mom and Dad were right all along. The only thing that kept you from listening to someone who only had your best interest at heart was your single-minded determination to stay stuck on stupid. When it’s our parents, you don’t have to say much. All you have to do is show up. Mama knows. Big Momma knows. Aunt Mary knows and they all agree whether to tell Daddy or not. The important thing is you’re home, and you’re okay. They still love you, and that fact goes a long way towards your ultimate survival. When it’s the Lord, something special also happens. Just show up on Daddy’s doorstep and not only is all forgiven, He throws a party in your honor.

The American is accepting Inspirational Messages from the community. Send your column (no more than 400 words) as a Word document and pasted text to cking@stlamerican. com and attach a photo of yourself as a jpeg ile. Please be patient; we will run columns in the order received.

James A. Washington

St. Louis County Judge Judy Draper recently opened her courtroom to a mock trial for youth organized by The Links, Inc., My Sisters Keepers 2 and St. Louis Slammers Athletic Ministry.

Celebrity Swagger Snap of the Week

Talk show host Wendy Williams most definitely made her rounds when she came to St. Louis to promote the upcoming season of “The Wendy Williams Show” on Friday. Lucky fan Ayesha had a chance to meet Williams at Left Bank Books, where she was signing copies of her new novel “Hold Me In Contempt.” Williams also made her way to Kiener Plaza and threw the first pitch of the St. Louis Cardinals game that day.

Farewell Tony Scott. By now I’m sure everybody has heard the news –especially if you read the front page of The St. Louis American or follow us on Facebook. Clear Channel decided to give Tony Scott the chop after more than 25 years on the Majic airwaves. I’ve heard all types of rumors, but I feel like it’s important to first bid Tony a fond farewell before I make predictions or give my two cents on the matter. And thanks to all of y’all’s outpouring on The St. Louis American’s Facebook and Twitter pages, he knows firsthand how his listeners felt about him and how disgusted they were upon hearing the one of the last remaining (and longest) constants at Majic will no longer be with us on their airwaves.

Welcome back, Wendy. Wendy Williams was in St. Louis on Friday and my girl was all over this city, do you hear me! She was in Kiener Plaza doing a promo for “The Wendy Williams Show,” and at Left Bank signing copies of her new novel “Hold Me In Contempt.” She threw out the first pitch at the Cardinals game on Friday. She dropped a batch of wings in the fryer at London and Sons and stirred a bat of greens at Sweetie Pie’s. Okay, the last two are unconfirmed, but not impossible based on how deep she was in our town. And thanks to FOUR wardrobe changes, she sparked purse and shoe envy all across this city. Between the Louboutins, Manolo Blahniks and the bags, Ms. “How You Doin’” had to be holding $20K worth of goods across her ankles and on her arm. I guess she said, “never mind this run of the mill wig…get into this purse and these pumps.” I was mesmerized with envy and couldn’t help but comply. And she’s lost so much weight she must be on that Nicole Richie diet of cigarette ashes and black coffee. Wendy was serving the flattest of stomachs, silicone and shoulder blades on top of that statuesque frame of hers. I am so glad she loves this city – and she was out here like she was campaigning for alderwoman!

Jay Ellis with Marquee movers and shakers. Koncepts and Ciroc presented “The Game” star Jay Ellis at The Marquee Friday night and until he arrived I was entertained by the dozen or so young ladies who made the premeditated decision to turn the party out in all white. Yes, a group of grown women came to the club as a group talkin’ ‘bout “all white everything.” Hot pants, freakum dresses, prom gowns, jumpers, all of it. They actually looked like they were shooting a club scene from the upcoming reality drama “First Ladies Gone Wild.” Everybody who was anybody was in the building getting their life from DJ Cuddy tearing it up on the tables. The ambience was a tasteful blend of ratchet and refined in a hybrid that I shall christen “ratchet chic.” Jay Ellis and his lovely smile showed up around midnight just as I was turning back into a pumpkin. Let me tell you, the TV or the promotional pics and flyers do him no justice. I was quietly expecting Jeffrey Osborne with a six pack, but he was a real cutie. And his charm and down-to-earth swag had his sexiness level up another notch.

Empty Boots EXO. I decided to pull a double header at EXO this weekend. Sadly, folks seem to have abandoned the venue like Pruitt Igoe, Castle Point and those schools on the North Side with lead-based paint. They made the mistake of booking two parties at the same time on Friday. There only about 15 people total. Downstairs was the upwardly mobile educated crowd. Upstairs was a bit more hood. So you had house music bumpin’ on the level one, and trap classics crankin’ on the second floor. Now there are no walls between the upstairs and downstairs and the sound clash was real when I got halfway up the steps. I didn’t know whether to twerk or twirl.

Winning with Espionage. The Rustic Goat was bursting at the seams with their presentation of “Espionage,” featuring the best and brightest of the next class of “bougie.” It was a 21 and up event, but everyone in the building looked young enough to need six more credit hours for an undergraduate degree. The guys were really going for fly with their “I’m gonna wear my suit extra tight to try and trick y’all into believing it’s tailored.”” And “Shades of Rihanna” was the theme of the evening for the ladies. They jacked her hair and wardrobe in the same way the Madonna fans used to do back in the day. Ronald McDonald Rihanna, Salad Bowl head Rihanna, Goldie Hawn Rihanna and Matrix 2 Rihanna were all in the building. They went on Google images, saved pics from her dearly-departed Instagram page and clearly went to town just for the night. I was expecting Prom Bat Rihanna (Google it if you don’t know) to flex her wings and fly through. It was young, hip and fresh. I was hot and bothered because it was the most packed I think I’ve ever seen the Goat. May Day Parade mixed emotions. While I was happy to be gathered amongst my most soulful St. Louisans for Annie Malone’s 2014 May Day Parade, I watched with a heavy heart as I said goodbye to two integral elements of my May Day experience…Beaumont High School and the Schnucks on Grand and Lee. Filling up on snacks in between transfers from the 41 to the 74 buses on my way to the parade was my lifeline. So I poured out a little Vess Fruit Punch and sprinkled Sundance chips in memoriam as I watched a lighter crowd than usual embark on downtown. I can’t say that I had a favorite, though I caught life from Normandy High’s take on “Happy” and tipped my quick weave to Plus Dime fitness for doing a full on boot camp cardio routine all the way down Market. And William C. Harris Funeral enlisted every white Cadillac in the STL metro area for their representation in the parade. I stopped counting after 21. And after the way she made her rounds on Friday, I quietly expected Wendy Williams to come kicking down the block “dropping it like it’s

in a majorette uniform or dance competition costume.

hot”

Makeda’s birthday was made extra special by a chance to party with Jay Ellis of BET’s ‘The Game’ Friday night @ The Marquee

Kriston and Vicki were among the tastemaker crowd who came through to kick ti with television star Jay Ellis Friday night @ The Marquee

Amanda, Dani of Jazzeble Jewels, Tyiona, and Charity stopped through Lola for A ladies night out on Saturday

Dano, DJ Cuddy and Shorty the Prince were in the building as the Marquee continued their day party season Sunday afternoon

Cydney, Brittany, and Tiera got down with the graduates who celebrated @ Espionage Saturday @ The Rustic Goat

AJ and Kenny cheered on marchers and participants as they watched the Annie Malone May Day Parade downtown on Sunday afternoon

Dj Kay Slay himself came to the STL to join vixen Mika Shay and Phil of Liquid Assets in the search for the next cover model for ‘Straight Stuntin’’ Magazine Friday night @ The Coliseum

Janise, Jennifer and Janae enjoyed the view as Liquid Assets and The Two Live Crew had Harry’s bursting at the seams Sunday afternoon for The Ultimate Day Party

Ono, Requaitta, Emmanuel and Jamarius packed the house with Espionage Saturday @ The Rustic Goat

Kevin and Catina spent their Sunday soaking in the St. Louis tradition of the Annie Malone May Day Parade

Photos by Lawrence Bryant